I. The Purpose of Existence (‘Ibādah and ‘Ilm)
The foundational premise of Islamic theology is that the Earth and humankind were created for a singular, overarching purpose: to know, love, and worship Allah (SWT). The Qur'an states explicitly: "I created the jinn and humans for nothing else but that they may serve Me" (Q. 51:56). This life is a journey, a realm of test and trial, intended to cultivate the firmness and determination necessary for self-realization and attaining eternal bliss in the Hereafter.
This path requires dedicated effort (Jihād al-Nafs) and stability. Just as theological knowledge is fundamental to sound faith, commitment to the fundamentals of religion, Islamic manners, and actively inviting others to the truth (Da‘wah) form the practical basis of service to the Creator.
II. The Imperative of Hope (Amal) in the Last Age
The current period, marked by pervasive moral and spiritual crisis, may lead to feelings of frustration and pessimism. However, from an Islamic perspective, this time should be viewed not as the final 'sunset' but as a severe, temporary anomaly—a "solar eclipse". The persistence of hope and goodness is evident in the sight of young people actively seeking knowledge and drawing nearer to Allah (SWT).
The presence of believers who are willing to abstain from worldly distractions—such as superficial entertainment or inappropriate conduct—for the sake of Allah (SWT) constitutes the crucial "beam of light" during this period of darkness. The prophetic traditions support the perception that we are living in the Last Age (Ākhir az-Zamān), noting signs like the swiftly moving time (taqārub az-zamān) where a year seems like a month, often attributed by scholars to the disappearance of barakah (blessing) from time. It is upon the constancy of belief that the continuity of the world hinges; when belief and believers disappear, the Day of Judgment arrives. Thus, as long as the youth maintain their attachment to faith, hope for revival remains strong.
III. The Central Responsibility of Women (Mas’ūliyyat al-Mar’ah)
The trajectory of the nation for the next generation rests significantly upon the shoulders of Muslim women. This is because women constitute half of society and are solely responsible for nurturing and raising the other half.
A. The Key to Societal Revival
The enemies of Islam have historically targeted Muslim women, attempting to make them feel that religion oppresses them or interferes with their freedom. This tactic aims to diminish their sense of responsibility, knowing that if the women are drawn away from Islam, the entire nation will suffer decline. Conversely, when women recognize their central role and persist on the path of Allah, the nation's wishes for prosperity and honor will be fulfilled.
The importance of addressing women directly and distinctly was established by the Prophet (PBUH). Historically, women, such as Rafida, requested separate gatherings to receive teaching, a practice the Prophet upheld because he recognized the effective and critical role women play in implementing Islamic law and teaching. If a woman links her faith with success in life and feels responsible for Islam, complete and flourishing change can rapidly occur within society.
B. The Qur'anic Paradigm of Female Excellence
The Qur'an powerfully refutes the notion that women are subordinate in spiritual value by presenting two believing women as exemplary role models for all humanity:
- Āsiyah, the Wife of Pharaoh (Q. 66:11): Allah (SWT) set forth Āsiyah as an example for those who believe. Living within the epicenter of tyranny and extravagant worldly power, she resisted the temptation of money, glory, and fame, instead praying: “My Lord! Build for me near You a house in Paradise…”. Her resistance to the temptation of wealth and status makes her an enduring model for men and women who allow themselves to be corrupted by materialism.
- Maryam, the Daughter of ‘Imrān (Q. 66:12): Maryam, who was protected in her piety and chastity, is set forth as the second great example. She serves as the ultimate model for resisting temptation and maintaining purity.
By highlighting these two women who excelled in resisting the two primary temptations that corrupt the world—money/fame and illicit desire—the Qur'an heightens the value of women, establishing them as necessary spiritual examples for all believers.
IV. Historical Influence and Personal Duty
The influence of women extends beyond the domestic sphere and intellectual example; their resolute presence has historically been decisive in military and political perseverance.
A. Steadfastness in Battle
In critical moments of Islamic history, women proved to be a formidable, motivating force. During the Battle of Yarmouk, where the Muslim army was heavily outnumbered by the Romans, the women were organized in the last row to prevent the men from retreating. It is documented that the women, including Hind bint Utbah, utilized sticks to physically turn back the fleeing men, and more powerfully, used verbal admonishment, screaming: “Where are you running from? From Allah and His paradise are you running?”. This powerful emotional motivation proved decisive in securing the victory.
B. The Bravery of Simple Faith
The strength of a woman's individual commitment is demonstrated by the story of Pharaoh's hairdresser (Māshiṭah). Though poor and simple, when her comb fell and she uttered "In the Name of Allah," she could not retract her faith. Even when Pharaoh threatened her four children, she maintained her unwavering declaration, "Your God and my God is Allah," until she and her children were martyred by fire. Her steadfastness (Istiqāmah) was such that when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended on al-Isrā’ wal-Mi‘rāj, he smelled her beautiful scent filling the heavens, a sign of her spiritual stature. She stands as a potent sign for the entire nation, emphasizing that true spiritual value is measured by dedication to faith, not worldly wealth or education.
V. Conclusion: Embracing the Duty of Da‘wah
The profound spiritual capacity and societal influence of Muslim women necessitate that they assume active responsibility for the future of Islam. It is not enough to be a passive listener; women must become active agents of change (Da‘wah). This responsibility extends to all spheres: the home (raising children who are defenders of the faith like Saladin), the neighborhood (organizing circles for Qur'an learning), and the workplace (being a role model and inviting colleagues to Allah).
The capacity of a woman’s emotional resolve is so immense that when she carries the burden of Islam in her heart, she can instigate a flourishing change in the nation that a man might need twenty years to achieve. Therefore, all Muslim women are implored to: maintain hope and understand the reliance placed upon them; assume full responsibility toward Islam; and use their influence to ensure the faith is practiced with honor in the family and society.
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