Education for Girls in Islam: Misconceptions and Realities

In many societies, the topic of girls' education in Islam is often accompanied by misconceptions and stereotypes. While some might argue that Islamic principles support gender segregation and limited educational opportunities for girls, the truth is more nuanced. In accordance with Islamic principles, girls are indeed allowed to go to school until the age of puberty. Post-puberty, their education and movement outside the home are governed by certain rules, necessitating the company of a mahram (a male relative who is allowed to have contact with her).

Legal and Societal Perspectives

In the vast majority of Muslim-majority countries, girls are allowed to attend school. However, in regions where extremist groups such as the Taliban or ISIS hold power, girls may be barred from education. The more liberal an Islamic country is, the more likely it is to provide educational opportunities for girls. It is not uncommon for girls to attend single-sex schools where there is no physical contact with males, and dating is strictly prohibited.

Historical Context and Current Reality

The history of girls' education in Islam is rich and varied. Saudi Arabia, for example, began educating girls around 1970 and only recently lifted the ban on women driving. Even in the job market, female career opportunities are still somewhat limited. However, this does not reflect the teachings of Islam. In fact, the Quran and Hadith (the words and actions of the Prophet Muhammad) emphasize the equality of men and women in education. It would be a great loss for humanity if a significant portion of Islam's teachings and practices were denied to half of the population due to educational restrictions.

Resources and Female Scholars

Islamic history is replete with female scholars who have made significant contributions to religious, legal, and academic fields. Abu Hakeem Bilāl Davis's lecture on Female Scholars of the Past provides an insightful perspective on this topic. While societal norms and cultural pressures can impact girls' education, it is important to revisit the authentic teachings of Islam, which encourage women to pursue knowledge and become knowledgeable scholars.

Challenges in the Western Context

One of the challenges in the Western context is navigating educational environments that may not align with Islamic values. Schools in the West often expose girls to cultures that promote unmotivated dress, materialism, and relationship norms that are contradictory to Islamic teachings. These influences can potentially harm a child's early development by instilling values that are not aligned with Islam. For that reason, many Muslims prefer that girls receive their education closer to home, in schools where they can receive a more aligned and safe education.