While the question "What are the rules for girls in Islam?" can be interpreted in various ways, focusing on rights and responsibilities provides the most accurate picture. In Islam, women, including girls, have a distinct identity and set of rights. This is detailed in Islamic texts and traditions.
Legal and Economic Rights
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Independent Personality: Islamic teachings emphasize that women are independent entities, not subordinate to men. This means:
- They can own property.
- They can make contracts.
- They can make bequests (wills).
- They are not under legal guardianship of a man.
- As stated in reference text, women are "completely independent personalit[ies]".
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Inheritance Rights: Girls inherit from their families as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters. These rights are not discretionary but are specified in Islamic law.
Marriage Rights
- Freedom to Choose: Girls have the right to choose their husbands; they cannot be forced into marriage. As the reference text mentions "She has perfect liberty to choose her husband."
- Dower (Mahr): The groom is obligated to give a gift of money or property (mahr) to the bride, which becomes her exclusive property.
- Divorce Rights: While the procedure might vary, women have the right to seek divorce under certain conditions.
Responsibilities
- Faith: Like males, females are required to uphold the five pillars of Islam, which include declaration of faith, prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage.
- Modesty: Women are expected to dress modestly, adhering to standards of Islamic dress in public.
- Education: It is obligatory for Muslims (both men and women) to seek knowledge.
- Family: She is expected to take care of her family and has a crucial role in raising the children.
Social Roles
- Equal Spiritual Worth: Islam teaches that men and women are equal in the eyes of God, and both are created with a soul and both are equally rewarded for their good deeds.
- Diverse Roles: The Quran and Sunnah do not limit women's roles to domestic work but allow them to participate in all aspects of life, including business, academics, medicine, and other professions, as long as they adhere to Islamic ethical codes.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Legal Rights | Women possess independent financial and legal agency, such as owning property, engaging in contracts, and inheriting wealth. |
| Marriage Rights | Girls have the right to choose a husband freely. The groom is obligated to provide a gift called ‘mahr’. |
| Responsibilities | Women are required to follow the pillars of faith, dress modestly, seek knowledge, and uphold their family responsibilities. |
| Social Roles | Women have various roles and have equal rights as men in the eyes of God. They can participate in different professions while upholding Islamic ethics. |
It's important to note that interpretations and practices of these rules may vary in different Muslim communities and cultures. However, the core principles regarding the rights and responsibilities of girls remain consistent in the Islamic scriptures.
