Reframing the contemporary Women’s Economic Struggle through the Lens of Prophetic Interaction

Abstract

This article explores women's economic struggle and empowerment during the Prophetic era, within the framework and boundaries of Islamic teachings. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) consistently supported women in their efforts to secure rightful social and economic status, advocating for their empowerment in accordance with divine guidance. While contemporary women may appear more economically empowered—often influenced by Western ideologies—this empowerment frequently aligns more with secular constructs of gender equality than with Islamic principles. In many cases, it grants women rights designed for men, rather than rights tailored to their distinct needs and identity as women. This divergence has led to widespread misconceptions about Islam’s position on women’s economic rights. The socio-cultural landscape of Pakistani society, heavily shaped by Indo-Pak patriarchal norms and Western influences, further distances people from authentic Islamic teachings on this matter. This article seeks to clarify these misunderstandings by examining the Prophet’s practical implementation of women’s economic rights. It highlights how the Quran and Sunnah establish a balanced model for women’s participation in the economy, rooted in justice, dignity, and spiritual values. The study also addresses the practical limitations, benefits, and boundaries of this model within a contemporary context.