Dr. Hassan Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Minhaj-ul-Quran International, has stated that the responsibility of spreading the message of religion is a shared duty between men and women. He emphasized that Islam commands equal treatment of women in every sphere of life. Highlighting the religious, social, and communal roles of women in Islam, he said that just as men are tasked with enjoining good and forbidding evil (Amr bil Ma'ruf wa Nahi anil Munkar), so too are women equally responsible. This status and responsibility cannot be diminished under the guise of traditions or cultural practices.
Dr. Hassan Mohi-ud-Din Qadri stated that the Holy Qur’an clearly declares believing men and believing women to be allies and supporters of one another. He further said that Islamic history bears witness to the fact that when it comes to serving the religion, women have not lagged behind men — rather, they have often led the way.
The Supreme Council Chairman said that no household, no family, and no organization can be complete without the inclusion of women alongside men. Citing key moments in Islamic history, he mentioned that during the migrations to Abyssinia and Medina, it wasn’t only men who participated, but women as well. At the time of the first and second pledges at Aqabah, among the 73 individuals who pledged allegiance, women were also present.
He highlighted the role of Sayyida Khadijah al-Kubra (RA), who was present in Dar al-Arqam when the message of Islam was being conveyed. She was a listener, learner, supporter, advisor, and wise counselor. Not only did she support the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), but she also became a shining example in serving the religion through her insight, experience, and wisdom.
Dr. Hassan Mohi-ud-Din Qadri concluded by stating that confining the call to Islam solely to men is incorrect. Throughout history, women have played a prominent role in the propagation of Islam. He called for the formation of organizations that include both men and women, as the message of Islam is one of complete partnership and equality.
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