WOMEN'S EDUCATION IN THE LIGHT OF THE HOLY QURAN: AN INTELLECTUAL STUDY

Abstract

Before the advent of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), ignorance prevailed throughout the Arabian Peninsula. Very few people knew how to read and write, and even those who were literate were far removed from proper moral and intellectual training. The condition of women during that era was deplorable. Educating or training them was unimaginable, for even the very existence of daughters was considered unbearable. The people were so deeply engrossed in the pleasures and vanities of worldly life that the thought of a higher, divine reality never crossed their minds. Islam came and presented to humanity a profound philosophy of life, one that established moral principles and defined clear rights and responsibilities for both men and women. It laid down rules of lawful and unlawful conduct and taught faith in Allah and obedience to His Messenger (peace be upon him). When people began to embrace this philosophy of life, they learned how to live with purpose and dignity. Through this divine guidance, they attained such a level of education, discipline, and moral refinement that they became the leaders and guides of the world. Therefore, it is essential today to highlight the concept of women’s education in the light of the Qur’anic teachings. It is in response to this very need that the present research paper has been written.

Keywords: Holy Prophet (PBUH), Islam, Quranic Teaching, Allah.