#RamadanDailyDigest: Roles And Rights Of Women In Ramadan - Dignity, Respect And Spiritual Equality (Ramadan Day 23)

As Ramadan reaches Day 23 and #RamadanDailyDigest continues to highlight different topical discourses, Muslims around the world continue to increase their acts of worship, charity, and reflection during the blessed final nine or ten nights. Among the many important discussions in Ramadan is the role, dignity, and rights of women in Islam.

The holy month of Ramadan provides an opportunity to reflect on how Islam honours women spiritually, socially, and morally. The teachings found in the Glorious Qur'an and the guidance of the Prophet of Allah ﷺ stress that women are equal participants in acts of worship and essential contributors to the strength of families and communities. Just as Allah will ask men about what they did on earth on the Day of Resurrection, Allah will question women too.

Spiritual Equality in Worship

Islam makes it crystal clear that both men and women share equal spiritual responsibility and reward.

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Allah says in the Glorious Qur’an (33:35):

“Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women… Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward.” 

The above highlighted verse shows that spiritual success in Islam is based on faith and righteousness, and not gender.

During Ramadan, women engage in the same acts of worship as men, including:

* Fasting during the day

* Reciting and reflecting on the Glorious Qur’an

* Performing prayers

* Giving charity

* Making supplications

These acts bring the same reward and spiritual growth.

The Prophet’s Teaching on Respect for Women

The Messenger of Allah Muhammad ﷺ consistently emphasised that we should be kind and respectful towards women.

In one of his famous teachings, he stated:

“The best of you are those who are best to their women.”

This above statement established a clear standard of character for Muslim men: true goodness includes honouring and respecting women.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also consulted women in community matters and valued their opinions and contributions.

Women as Pillars of the Ramadan Household

In many Muslim homes, women play a central role in organising Ramadan activities.

Their contributions often include and not limited to the following:

1. Preparing Suhoor and Iftar meals

2. Teaching children about fasting and prayer

3. Organising family worship routines

4. Encouraging acts of charity

These roles help create a spiritually uplifting environment within the household. However, Islamic teachings remind families that responsibilities should be shared. The sacred month of Ramadan should not become a burden on women but rather a time when all family members support one another in worship.

Women and the Pursuit of Knowledge

Islam encourages women to pursue knowledge and spiritual understanding. A good number of female companions of the Prophet of Islam ﷺ were known for their scholarship and wisdom. One famous example is Aisha bint Abi Bakr, who transmitted numerous Hadiths and served as a respected teacher for many companions.

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During the blessed month of Ramadan, women continue this tradition by:

1. Studying the Qur’an

2. Attending Islamic lectures

3. Participating in community discussions

4. Teaching younger generations about faith

Knowledge strengthens faith and empowers women to contribute meaningfully to society.

Compassion and Mercy in Family Life

Ramadan emphasises compassion within the family. Women often serve as emotional anchors within households, offering support, patience, and encouragement during the fasting period.

Islam values this nurturing role and identifies the sacrifices women make for their families. At the same time, the Glorious Qur’an stresses mutual respect and cooperation between spouses.

Allah describes marriage as a relationship based on tranquility, love, and mercy.

Rights and Consideration During Ramadan

Islam also provides practical guidance that protects women’s well-being.

For example, women who are: pregnant; breastfeeding; menstruating; and experiencing illness, are given allowances regarding fasting. These exemptions reflect Islam’s principle of mercy and balance, ensuring that acts of worship do not harm physical health.

Such rulings demonstrate that Islam values the dignity and welfare of women.

Women’s Contributions to Community Charity

Women also play a powerful role in Ramadan charity initiatives.

A good number of women lead or participate in programs such as:

* Preparing meals for the needy

* Organising charity drives

* Supporting orphans and vulnerable families

* Volunteering at community Iftar events

These acts of service strengthen the social spirit of Ramadan.

Thoughts for Ramadan Day 23

Take time today as another fasting is about to be completed, and think deeply on how the teachings of Islam encourage respect and appreciation for women. Afterwards, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do we acknowledge the contributions of women enough during Ramadan?

2. Are responsibilities shared fairly within the household?

3. How can communities better support women in their spiritual journey?

These reflections and questions help ensure that the spirit of justice and compassion remains central to Ramadan.

Final Reflection for Ramadan Day 23

The teachings of the Glorious Qur'an and the example of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ make it clear that women hold an honoured status in Islam. The holy month of Ramadan highlights this dignity by providing equal opportunities for spiritual growth, acts of worship, and community service.

As we have witnessed this year's Ramadan Day 23, let us remember that a virile and compassionate society is built when the rights, dignity, and contributions of women are respected and appreciated.

#RamadanDailyDigest believes in Honouring Women, Strengthening Families, and Upholding the Values of Islam.

#RamadanDailyDigest is an exclusive content written by Oladele Hakeem Olaniyan and published by Naijaloveinfo during the month of Ramadan.