Men in Islam

Across the world the plight of women in Islam is looked upon with great concern as most people confuse cultural traditions with religion. Not many people are aware that Islam is the only religion that offers women perfect freedom. Unfortunately the fear and insecurity of men has led them to dominate and suppress women. As a result, the West predominantly looks at the religion as the promoter of suppression. While the focus is on women in Islam the role of the men goes unaccounted for.

While God has chosen men to lead families this should in no way be construed as a license for men to belittle women. Islam lays great emphasis on moral behavior, resting the foundation of a civil society on the shoulders of men.

[4:34] The men are made responsible for the women, and GOD has endowed them with certain qualities, and made them the bread earners. The righteous women will cheerfully accept this arrangement, since it is GOD's commandment, and honor their husbands during their absence...

God address all issues that allow for a perfect society. Perfect does not mean that there will be no problems (some will always break the law), but it means that society will be better equipped to deal with issues in a more responsible and equitable manner.

A good example has been set in the behavior of prophets and messengers. They were men who not only possessed strength of character but also exhibited patience and courage in the face of adversity. The example of all God’s prophets/messengers is exemplary as it serves to demonstrate extreme courage, understanding, knowledge and wisdom. Standing alone, in the presence of hundreds of people, preaching the worship of God alone, would not only take courage but also knowledge of the topic and wisdom to act appropriately. There were times when messengers were disappointed and lost the battle, but faith in God and patience would have taught them to wait and fight the winning war, exhibiting qualities of strategic thinking, planning and execution. Essential qualities required in a global society where most of the world is fighting Islam. It is necessary for Submitters to lead by example by displaying patience, understanding and tolerance not only amongst those who do not follow Submission but also amongst each other.

In today’s world where typical actions are reactions to situations, God’s system is distinct. He addresses the root of the problem.

[24:30] Tell the believing men that they shall subdue their eyes (and not stare at the women), and to maintain their chastity. This is purer for them. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything they do.

A simple commandment such as ‘subdue your eyes’ leads to modest behavior, that will in turn address concerns of sexual harassment. Even issues of homosexuality are firmly dealt with, where God tells us in no uncertain terms that homosexuality is an abomination

[Quran 7:80-81] Lot said to his people, "You commit such an abomination; no one in the world has done it before! You practice sex with the men, instead of the women. Indeed, you are a transgressing people”.

[Bible Leviticus 18:22] You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female; it is an abomination.

Society is afraid to take a stand on the issue but God does not shy from anything.

God’s system provides for civil society, giving men no authorization to suppress or harass women. To the contrary God has provided women with answers to all matters in the Quran, thereby freeing them from the clutches of the tyranny imposed upon them by men.

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