“Gender equality isn’t a favor; it’s a right.” This assertion prompts the question: can a centuries-old religion accommodate such a modern ideal? The simple answer is yes—Islam inherently champions gender equality, rooted in its spiritual teachings. Islamic feminism seeks the complete equality of all Muslims, irrespective of gender, in both public and private life.

Feminism has helped highlight how Islam, at its core, promotes gender equity. However, cultural and traditional practices, influenced by patriarchy and male dominance, often overshadowed these teachings. As global calls for equality gained momentum, they were frequently misunderstood, especially in the Muslim world, where feminism’s Western origins provoked resistance. Ironically, Muslim women were granted equal rights at the inception of Islam but were consistently deprived of them. They were often reminded of their obligations while being denied awareness of their corresponding rights.

Since the mid-19th century, both Muslim women and men have critiqued practices such as restrictions on women’s education, seclusion, veiling, polygyny, and slavery. Modern Muslims have questioned these norms and called for........

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