Parenting Perspective 

Equal Worth, Complementary Roles 

Answering your child’s questions about the roles of men and women in Islam requires honesty, clarity, and balance. You can begin by acknowledging that Islam recognises the unique strengths of both genders and assigns roles that are based on these strengths. For example, you could explain, ‘In Islam, men and women are both valued equally, but they have different responsibilities that complement each other. Men are generally encouraged to be providers and protectors, while women often take on nurturing roles within the family. But this does not mean that one is more important than the other.’ 

Use Powerful Role Models 

It is a good idea to use real-life examples or stories of women in Islam, such as Aisha (RA) and Fatimah (RA), who both had influential roles in the community. You could say, ‘Aisha (RA) was not only the wife of the Prophet ﷺ but was also one of the greatest scholars in Islamic history. This shows that women can be leaders, educators, and influential figures, just like men.’ 

Focus on Balance and Harmony 

Finally, it is important to explain that gender roles in Islam are about balance and harmony, not about inequality. You can reinforce that everyone has a valuable role to play, whether as a father, a mother, a son, or a daughter, and that these roles are a part of Allah’s divine wisdom. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, the roles of men and women are designed to complement one another, with both genders being equally valued for their contributions to the faith and to society. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzaab (33), Verse 35: 

‘Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women; and the believing men and believing women… and the men who remember Allah (Almighty) excessively and women who also remember (Allah Almighty excessively); Allah (Almighty) has prepared for all of them redemption and a great reward.’ 

This verse emphasises that both men and women have equal spiritual value in the eyes of Allah. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also demonstrated that both genders play important roles in society. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

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

This Hadith shows that good character, respect, and kindness are equally important for both men and women. By explaining these concepts to your child, you can help them to understand that while men and women may have different roles, their value in the sight of Allah and their role in society are equally important.