Is Islam Inherently Patriarchal, or Has Patriarchy Influenced Its Interpretation?


Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick

Question

Is Islam inherently patriarchal, or has patriarchy influenced its interpretation over time?

Answer

The term “patriarchy” is a modern construct, often describing societal structures that privilege men over women. To address this question, it is vital to distinguish between cultural influences and the divine teachings of Islam, which are rooted in justice and equity.

Allah (Most High) says, “Indeed, Allah commands justice, grace, and courtesy to close relatives. He forbids indecency, wickedness, and oppression. He instructs you, so perhaps you will be mindful.” [Quran, 16:90]

Islam, as a divine system, transcends human constructs of justice, including those shaped by sociopolitical ideologies. It upholds the inherent dignity of every human being: “We have certainly honored the children of Adam.” [Quran, 17:70]

Historical Context

Historically, Islam granted women revolutionary rights, such as property ownership, access to education, and participation in social and economic life, far ahead of its time.

The perception of patriarchy in Islam often arises from cultural practices or misinterpretations of its teachings rather than from Islam itself. Renowned scholars like Imam Nawawi and Ibn Hajar (Allah be pleased with them) stress the importance of contextualizing Islamic teachings within the framework of Sacred Law, free from cultural distortions.

The Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) exemplified fairness and compassion, stating: “The best of you are those who are best to their wives.” [Tirmidhi]

Far from upholding patriarchal values, his example elevated women’s status and ensured a harmonious balance of rights and responsibilities between genders.

Conclusion

Islam is not inherently patriarchal. It is a system of divine justice that honors both men and women according to their God-given roles. When cultural practices or interpretations deviate from this justice, they must be critically reevaluated in light of authentic Islamic teachings.

And Allah knows best.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Mohammad Abu Bakr Badhib

Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan.

Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Mawlana Yusuf Karaan, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.

He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has served as the Director of the Discover Islam Centre and Al Jeem Foundation. For the last five years till present, he has served as the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.

Shaykh Irshaad has thirteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic online learning and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy living and fitness.