by Huzaifa Bashir.
In recent years , the concept of “women empowerment” has become a prevalent discussion in societies worldwide. However, the true meaning of this term has often been misunderstood and misrepresented. Some people equate empowerment with adopting Western values or imitating male behaviors, while others confuse it with actions that actually undermine the dignity and respect women deserve. Let us explore the misconceptions surrounding women empowerment and seek clarity based on our rich cultural and religious values.
1. The Equality Myth: Men and Women are the Same.
A popular misconception is that men and women are equal in all aspects of life. While both deserve equal rights and opportunities, it’s important to understand that they are inherently different, created by Allah with distinct roles and abilities. The Quran acknowledges these differences and provides each gender with specific responsibilities that align with their physical and emotional strengths.
Women are no less valuable, but their empowerment is not about becoming men. It’s about recognizing their unique strengths and supporting their role in society while maintaining their dignity. If Allah had intended for both genders to be identical, He would not have made them physically and emotionally distinct. Therefore, empowerment lies in a woman embracing her natural qualities, not in imitating men.
2. Dress Code: Women Imitating Men to Gain Empowerment.
Another misconception is that women need to wear the same clothes as men to assert their equality. Some women have adopted male fashion, thinking that by doing so, they will be perceived as empowered. However, this is far from the truth. Clothing is an expression of one’s identity and values. Islam has clearly defined modesty and dignity for both men and women. Women, in particular, are encouraged to maintain their unique identity through the way they dress, which is a sign of respect for themselves.
Wearing male clothing does not elevate a woman’s status; rather, it undermines her dignity. The famous hadith, “Anyone who imitates others becomes one of them,” serves as a reminder that women should cherish their own values and dress in a way that reflects their self-worth and faith.
3. The Misuse of Cultural Practices in the Name of Empowerment.
In many institutions, particularly during events or gatherings, women are encouraged to perform dances or other entertaining acts for the amusement of guests. This is often justified as a form of empowerment, but is it really? Women are not meant to be showpieces or objects of entertainment. The Quranic verse, “Indeed, the eyes, ears, and heart will all be questioned about” (17:36), emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal dignity and integrity.
Empowerment is not about objectifying oneself for others’ pleasure. It’s about the freedom to make choices without compromising one’s values or respect. Women should be empowered to pursue their dreams, not to perform for an audience.
4. Chanting and Public Displays of Women in the Name of Empowerment.
Some NGOs in Kashmir, for example, engage young girls in public chanting and street protests, thinking it empowers them. These actions, however, do not empower women; they exploit them. Women should not be subjected to public scrutiny or degradation in the name of empowerment. True empowerment involves protecting a woman’s honor and dignity, ensuring that she is not paraded around for public spectacle.
Moreover, when social media tarnishes the reputation of women involved in such activities, those who claim to support empowerment often vanish, leaving these women vulnerable. Real empowerment does not involve cheap publicity or humiliation.
5. The “My Body, My Choice” Fallacy.
The phrase “My body, my choice” has been widely used in Western circles to justify certain behaviors, but this idea is often misconstrued. Women, like all human beings, do not have ultimate control over their bodies as they think. Our bodies are a trust from Allah, and it is our responsibility to uphold the sanctity of this trust.
The modern feminist movement has sometimes misled women into thinking they have absolute autonomy over their bodies, encouraging harmful behaviors such as promiscuity and the normalization of prostitution. True empowerment is about respecting one’s body, protecting it from harm, and understanding that it belongs to Allah.
6. Beauty Parlors: Empowerment or Objectification?
In many cases, women work in beauty parlors, performing services like manicures and pedicures on men. While some may argue that it’s a form of economic independence, one must question whether this truly empowers women. Serving men in such an intimate manner can undermine a woman’s dignity and self-respect.
Real empowerment does not involve submitting to practices that objectify women. Instead, empowerment means being able to choose one’s path without sacrificing personal honor and integrity.
7.Critique of hijab:
Many women in Kashmir and around the world are criticized for wearing the hijab. However, those who choose to wear it are not oppressed; they are empowered by their faith. The hijab is not just a piece of clothing but a symbol of modesty, dignity, and self-respect. Women who choose to wear the hijab are exercising their right to live according to their values and beliefs, a right that should be respected, not mocked.
Conclusion: Upholding Dignity in the Pursuit of Empowerment.
True women empowerment, as defined by Islam, does not mean imitating men or adopting harmful behaviors. It is about embracing one’s unique identity, maintaining dignity, and making choices that reflect personal strength and faith. Women should be given the freedom to live their lives with respect and honor, without the pressures of societal norms that seek to diminish their worth.
As Allah has bestowed honor upon women, it is our duty to protect and cherish that honor. Empowerment begins with understanding one’s self-worth and standing firm in the face of misconceptions and misguided movements.
Huzaifa Bashir | Can be reached at jahanteli7@gmail.com
