Parenting Perspective 

Equal Worth, Different Roles 

Addressing tricky questions about gender fairness in Islam involves helping your child to understand that the faith upholds equality between men and women in many aspects of life, even though certain roles or responsibilities may differ. You can start by explaining that Islam values both genders equally in the eyes of Allah, and that differences in their roles are based on wisdom, not on superiority. You might say, ‘Islam teaches us that both men and women are equal in the eyes of Allah. However, Allah has assigned different roles to men and to women based on their unique strengths and responsibilities.’ 

Encourage Open Questions 

Encourage your child to ask questions and to express their thoughts, ensuring that they feel comfortable discussing these topics openly. ‘I know you have questions about how men and women are treated in Islam, and it is good to ask. We should always seek to understand the wisdom behind Allah’s guidance.’ This helps your child to understand that the gender roles in Islam are designed to create balance and harmony, not inequality. 

Fairness and Dignity for All 

It is important to reassure your child that Islam’s teachings about gender are based on fairness and the protection of dignity for all individuals. ‘Islam does not value one gender over another. Both men and women are honoured for their faith and their actions. Our roles are meant to complement each other, not to create unfairness.’ Finally, you can reinforce the importance of respecting both men and women in all aspects of life, teaching your child that fairness in Islam is about honouring each person’s unique qualities and contributions. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, gender equality is emphasised in terms of moral value and spiritual worth, with differences in roles reflecting wisdom and the need for balance. Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 13: 

‘O mankind, indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have created you all from one man and one woman; and placed you amongst various nations and tribes for your introduction to each other; indeed, the best of you in the judgement of Allah (Almighty) is the one who is most virtuous; indeed, Allah (Almighty) is the Omniscient, the all Cognisant.’ 

This verse teaches that both men and women are equal in the sight of Allah, and that the focus is on righteousness and character, not on gender. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the equality of men and women in terms of their spiritual and moral worth. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith highlights that the true value of a person is in their character and how they treat others, regardless of their gender. By addressing tricky questions about gender fairness in Islam, you are helping your child to understand the core Islamic values of equality, respect, and fairness for all.