Is Islam Misogynistic? A Closer Look at Faith, Culture, and the Power of Perspective
By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam
2 June 2025
Misogyny or Misunderstanding? Rethinking Women’s Rights in Islam Through Faith, Context, and Dialogue
Main Points:
1. Critics see the unequal shares between sons and daughters as unfair, but Islamic scholars explain it as a balance based on men's financial responsibilities.
2. While modern feminists view polygyny as giving men unfair privileges, traditional scholars see it as a regulated social solution to protect vulnerable women.
3. The verse describing men as "protectors" is interpreted by some as male dominance, but many scholars emphasize it as a responsibility, not superiority.
4. Critics argue dress codes control women, but many Muslim women view the hijab as a voluntary act of faith and dignity, symbolizing empowerment rather than oppression.
5. The meaning of "misogyny" can vary based on context and beliefs. Careful understanding and respectful dialogue are key to avoiding unfair judgments.
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Recently, an important article by Ghulam Ghaus Sahib was published on New Age Islam, titled "Islam and Women: Rethinking Misogyny in Light of Theology, Cultural Practice, Historical Context, and the Taliban Narrative." This article is both scholarly and thought-provoking. It has received a range of responses—some readers offered valuable comments and appreciation, while others shared their criticisms. Drawing on classical Islamic teachings, the article explores the serious and sensitive issue of misogyny, or the mistreatment and devaluation of women. When I read it, I found it deeply insightful. It helped me see things from a new perspective and introduced me to ideas that felt both unique and meaningful. It encouraged me to think more critically and carefully about how religious texts and cultural practices are interpreted and applied in different contexts.
The word misogyny usually refers to a strong dislike or even hatred of women. However, in today’s world, people often use the word in a broader way. For example, if a rule, tradition, or practice seems unfair or harmful to women, some may call it misogynistic—even if others disagree. This means that what one person sees as misogyny, another may not. These different views often come from people's personal values, cultural backgrounds, or religious beliefs. Because of this, it's important to approach such topics with care, understanding, and respect—especially when they involve religion, history, or deeply held traditions.
Let’s take a closer look through some real examples from Islamic teachings and how they are interpreted in different ways:
1. Inheritance Laws in Islam (Surah 4:11)
Let us take the example of inheritance laws in Islam. In the Qur’an, specifically in Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4, Verse 11), it says that when parents pass away, the daughter gets half the share that the son receives.
What Critics Say:
Some people, especially critics of religion or gender laws, say this is misogynistic. They argue that it treats women unfairly because sons get more money than daughters. From their point of view, giving someone less money just because they are female seems like discrimination or injustice.
What Muslim Scholars Say:
On the other hand, Muslim scholars and believers explain that this law is not about valuing men more than women, but rather about their different roles and responsibilities in Islamic society.
In Islam, men are required to spend their money on their families. They must pay a mahr (dowry) at marriage, provide food, shelter, and clothing to their wives and children.
Women, however, are not required to spend their money on anyone. Whatever they inherit is theirs to keep and use as they wish. They are not expected to pay for household needs.
The Main Point:
So, Muslim scholars say this rule is not based on the idea that men are better or more important than women, but on the idea that men have more financial duties, so they need more resources to fulfil those duties.
Two Different Views
This is a good example of how the same law can be seen in two very different ways: One side sees it as unfair and misogynist—they focus on the fact that the daughter gets less than the son. The other side sees it as fair and balanced—because the son has more financial responsibilities, he is given more. In the end, whether someone sees this rule as misogynistic or not often depends on their worldview, values, and understanding of the religion.
2. Polygyny in Islam (Surah 4:3)
Another topic that often comes up in discussions about women and Islam is polygyny—which means a man having more than one wife. This is mentioned in the Qur’an, Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4, Verse 3). In Islam, a man is allowed to marry up to four wives, but only under strict conditions—such as treating them all equally and fairly.
What Modern Feminists Say:
Many modern feminists and critics argue that polygyny is misogynistic. They say it gives men more rights than women, because women are not allowed to have multiple husbands. To them, this seems unfair and unequal. They feel that such a rule places women in a lower position and gives extra privileges to men.
What Traditional Islamic Scholars Say:
From a traditional Islamic perspective, polygyny is not about male privilege or control. Instead, scholars say it was a practical and merciful solution to real problems in society at the time.
For example: During times of war, many men died, leaving behind widows and orphans. Polygyny allowed women without support to be cared for in a respectful, lawful way. It was not about giving men free rein, but about providing protection, financial support, and dignity to women who might otherwise be left helpless. Also, the Qur'an strictly warns men that if they cannot treat all wives equally, then they should only marry one.
The Main Point:
So, while critics may see polygyny as a sign of inequality, Islamic scholars see it as a social solution that came with clear rules and responsibilities. It was never meant to degrade women, but to respond to social needs in a way that preserved their honour.
Two Different Views Again
Once again, we see that the same practice can be understood in very different ways: One view says it's unfair because only men are allowed multiple spouses. The other view says it’s a regulated and compassionate rule, meant to help society and protect vulnerable women. Understanding these different perspectives helps us see how culture, context, and beliefs shape the way we view religious teachings.
3. Gender Roles in Marriage (Surah 4:34)
Another verse that often sparks debate is Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4, Verse 34). This verse says that men are "protectors and maintainers of women."
What Some Critics Say:
Some people read this verse and say it promotes male superiority. They believe that calling men “protectors” puts women in a weaker or lower position. From this view, the verse seems to support a system where men have more power in the marriage, which they see as misogynistic or patriarchal (male-centred). These critics worry that this kind of thinking can lead to men controlling women or making all the decisions in the household.
What Traditional Islamic Scholars Say:
On the other hand, many Islamic scholars and believers explain the verse differently. They say it is not about men being better or more important than women. Instead, it talks about roles and responsibilities within the family.
In Islamic teachings, men are responsible for providing for the family—financially and physically. They are expected to earn money, protect, and care for their wives and children. Women are valued equally but may take on different roles, often focusing on nurturing and managing the home, though this can vary based on the couple's agreement. The verse, according to many scholars, highlights care, protection, and responsibility—not power or control.
The Main Point:
So, this verse can be understood in two very different ways: Some people see it as a message of male dominance, where men are placed above women. Others see it as a practical setup for family life, where each partner has different roles, and men are given more responsibility, not more status. Importantly, Islam teaches that both men and women are equal in worth before God. Their roles may differ, but their value is the same.
Different Interpretations
Just like in the other examples, how people interpret this verse depends a lot on their background, beliefs, and experiences: For some, it looks like patriarchy (male authority). For others, it sounds like protection and care. Understanding both views helps us have more respectful and informed discussions about gender roles in religion.
4. Dress Codes in Islam (Hijab and Modest Clothing)
One of the most talked-about topics when it comes to women and Islam is the dress code, especially the hijab (headscarf) and other forms of modest clothing.
What Some Critics Say:
Some people argue that telling women how to dress is a form of misogyny—which means it’s unfair or even oppressive toward women. They believe that when women are required or pressured to cover their bodies, it takes away their freedom to choose. To them, this seems like a way to control women, which they see as a clear sign of gender inequality. This view is often influenced by the idea that freedom means being able to wear whatever you want, without rules based on religion or tradition.
What Many Muslim Women and Scholars Say:
On the other hand, many Muslim women and Islamic scholars have a very different view. They say that the hijab is not about control, but about faith, identity, and dignity. For millions of Muslim women around the world, wearing the hijab is a personal and spiritual choice—not something forced on them.
In Islam, both men and women are told to dress modestly. The purpose of modest clothing is to: encourage self-respect and inner dignity, shift the focus from physical appearance to a person's character and behaviour, and create a society based on respect, not objectification. Many Muslim women say that wearing the hijab actually makes them feel strong, respected, and connected to their beliefs. For them, it is not about hiding, but about owning their identity.
The Main Point:
So again, we have two very different ways of looking at the same practice: Some people see it as a form of oppression, where women are being told what to do. Others see it as a form of empowerment, where women are making a conscious, faith-based choice to dress a certain way. It all depends on how someone understands freedom, religion, and identity.
One Practice, Many Perspectives
What might seem oppressive to some can feel deeply liberating and meaningful to others. That’s why it’s important to listen to the voices of Muslim women themselves, rather than assuming they are all being forced or controlled. Understanding these different perspectives helps us have more respectful, informed, and open-minded conversations about religious dress and women’s rights.
Conclusion: Looking Deeper Before Judging
From the examples we’ve looked at—inheritance, polygyny, gender roles in marriage, and dress codes—it’s clear that the word “misogyny” can mean different things to different people.
Misogyny Is a Serious Issue—But Needs Careful Use
Yes, it is very important to stand against real injustice and unfair treatment of women. Wherever women are being harmed, disrespected, or denied their rights, we must speak up. But at the same time, we must be careful not to quickly label every religious or cultural practice as misogynistic without fully understanding it. Some things may look unequal at first, but when we look deeper, we may find reasons based on responsibility, social needs, or spiritual values, not hate or disrespect.
The Importance of Context and Intent
A key point to remember is: Not everything that looks unequal is automatically unjust. Sometimes, rules are based on different roles, not different worth. Sometimes, religious practices are meant to protect and support, not control or harm. The intention behind a practice, and the cultural or historical context in which it came about, matters a lot. When we ignore these things, we risk misunderstanding and even unfairly judging others' beliefs.
Choosing Thoughtful Dialogue, Not Quick Labels
In the end, what we really need is more honest, respectful conversation. Instead of jumping to conclusions, we should ask questions, listen carefully, and try to see things from different sides. This kind of thoughtful dialogue helps build deeper understanding, and it brings people closer together—even if they don’t fully agree.
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Kaniz Fatma is a classic Islamic scholar and a regular columnist for New Age Islam.
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-women-feminism/misogynistic-faith-culture-perspective/d/135744
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