Al Azhar Grand Imam Ahmed el Tayyeb Sunday affirmed that Islam has attached great importance to women’s rights since its emergence.
Prior to Islam, women in societies such as ancient India and pre-Islamic Arabia were deprived of many rights, including inheritance and full recognition of their dignity, Tayyeb said.
Tayyeb was addressing the opening session of conference on investing in religious and media discourse and its impact on protecting and enhancing women’s rights in the Member States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries that is organized by Al Azhar.
The event is attended by Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli.
Tayeb stressed that Islam came to defend the dignity of women. He quoted the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) saying, “Women are the counterparts of men,” and pointed out that Islam granted women rights to inheritance, education, and employment, urging the importance of treating them with kindness and ensuring they are not harmed in any way.
The Quran emphasizes honoring and protecting women, Tayyeb said, adding that Islam does not impose restrictions on women’s rights but ensures fairness and dignity.
The Prophet Muhammad commanded the preservation of women’s dignity and reputation, granting them political and social rights to guarantee their active participation in society.
Muslim women serve as models of dignity and moderation in confronting harmful custom, Tayyeb said, adding that despite societal pressures, they continue to preserve their rights.
