In contemporary times, modernism has been mixed up with westernisation, measured in terms of how you dress rather than how you think. Yet modernism in its true sense is in thought, intellect and values. It is about moving with the times without sacrificing your individuality. For Muslim women, this balance is not only possible, it’s deeply embedded in their tradition.
Islam has never come in the path of expression and ambition. Islam is a religion that fosters knowledge, enterprise and dignity. Muslim women have been playing powerful roles in the making of society since the very beginning, shattering stereotypes centuries ahead of time.
Hazrat Khadija (RA), a businesswoman, was not only the first wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but also the first to embrace Islam. Her wisdom, self-reliance and capability are evergreen. Hazrat Ayesha (RA), an amazingly overwhelming Hadith storyteller, was eminent for her insights and exhaustive information of Islamic law. Hazrat Fatima (RA), the adored daughter of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), was regarded for her devotion, bravery and blamelessness of character. And Hazrat Zainab (RA), the fearless granddaughter of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), stood tall in Yazid’s court, speaking truth to power after the massacre of Karbala.
These women were not constrained by societal expectations. They were trailblazers, combining faith with courage, modesty with intellect, and graciousness with grit.
Modernism does not mean abandoning your heritage. It means carrying them along proudly. It’s time we unlinked progress from fashion and recognised strength of character, depth of mind and lucidity of thought as the authentic hallmarks of the modern woman.
Rumisa Malik
Karachi
