Abstract The status and rights of women under Shari’ah remain among the most misunderstood aspects of Islam. This research employed a qualitative and analytical approach to address these misconceptions, arguing that they largely stem from cultural practices and selective interpretations rather than the principles of Islamic law itself. The study juxtaposes the systematically dehumanizing conditions for women in pre-Islamic Arabia with the revolutionary rights granted by Shari’ah, in spirituality, economics, education, and law. The analysis confirms that Islam provided a comprehensive protective framework for women’s rights centuries before modern international conventions. The study concluded that the challenge lies not in the divine sources but in their human application, advocating for a return to authentic interpretations to realize Islam’s inherent commitment to gender equity.
Keywords: Shari’ah, women’s rights, Gender justice, pre-Islamic Arabia, misconception
Written By:
Mariam Adamu
Independent Researcher
Mobile: +2347089391983
Email: mariam.n.adamu@gmail.com
ORCID ID: 0009-0003-0873-2871