Women's Rights and Women Leading Prayers

There are two opinions regarding this particular issue. The first opinion, which is backed by a large majority of scholars, is that a woman cannot lead general prayers and it is based on following points:

1. That it is a change in the ritual, which is not allowed in Islam.
2. There are some ahadith, the conclusion of which is derived to be that women may not lead general prayers
3. It violates the principles of modesty to an extent, where a women is prostrating in front of men.

The other opinion is based on the fact that there is no categorical prohibition of such an act in either the Quran, or the Sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh). Consequently, it can be said that it is against Islamic tradition and culture, but not more than that.

I find myself in harmony with both the opinions, in the sense that while it is not directly prohibited in the primary sources of Islam, yet, it makes sense for a woman to not lead prayers for some of the reasons mentioned above.

Specifically in relation to this event, I will provide some thinking which is a result of personal contemplation. I believe that the entire concept of gender equality in Islam (or even otherwise) is quite a misunderstood one. From the very nature of a man and woman, it is very easy to see that they have been created rather differently. At an average level, a woman does possess some qualities that a man does not possess and vice versa. It is indeed disturbing that most people are under the impression that if a woman cannot do the same as a man, then she is somewhat lesser than him. In other words, it has been decided that if a woman does 'womanly' duties, then she is lesser than men, and based on that she is urged to be the same as a man.

In order to achieve true equality, the goal should have been to accept the duties performed by women equal to those of men, even though they may have been different. A woman becoming pregnant and giving birth to a child, and taking care of the child is no less than man earning for his family and providing for them. However, what has happened is that it is usually understood that a woman must do the same as man for her to be his 'equal'.

In addition, the 'rights' that a women deserves, for instance respect, honour and love, should have been fought for. If she is prosecuted, she be saved from that. She also be protected from crimes directed at women such as rape or domestic violence. That would be salvaging her dignity and granting her her rights, and that is precisely what a true Islamic society strives to provide.

Given this understanding, in my humble opinion, this event does not really seem directly related to 'women's rights'. It has been decided that a man leading the prayer is something that if women do not do, they are somewhat lesser than men. As a result of this thinking, there is an effort to compete with men in that area, even though it does not have much to do with women's rights. Consquently, I find myself at a loss to appreciate those who believe that women are not equal to men unless they be given these 'rights'.

I hope you find my thoughts on the subject useful.