Many people assume that Islam silences women, but the Quran itself opens with a scene where a woman’s voice reaches the heavens. Khawlah bint Tha’labah argued with the Prophet ﷺ about her husband, and her complaint was heard by Allah, the Almighty, above the seven heavens. This article explores the profound lessons on justice and listening that this story teaches us.
Allah Hears the Woman Who Pleads
The first verse of Surah Al-Mujaadila directly responds to a woman’s plea. « Allah has indeed heard (and accepted) the statement of the woman who pleads with thee concerning her husband and carries her complaint (in prayer) to Allah: and Allah (always) hears the arguments between both sides among you: for Allah hears and sees (all things). » This verse was revealed about Khawlah, who came to the Prophet ﷺ to complain about her husband’s treatment. Her voice, though unheard by some, was heard by Allah, who is above all creation. This establishes a foundational principle: every believer, regardless of gender, has the right to be heard and to seek justice.
The Story of Khawlah
‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: « Praise be to Allah Whose hearing encompasses all voices. Khawlah came to the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) complaining about her husband, but I could not hear what she was saying. Then Allah, Glorified and Exalted, revealed the verse: {Certainly has Allah heard the speech of the one who argues with you [O Muhammad] concerning her husband and directs her complaint to Allah. And Allah hears your dialogue.} [Sūrat al-Mujādilah: 1]. » This hadith shows that even when human ears fail to catch every word, Allah’s hearing is perfect and all-encompassing. The revelation of this verse is a divine endorsement of the woman’s right to seek justice and be heard.
Justice Is a Divine Command for All
Justice is not an optional virtue in Islam; it is a divine command. The Quran states, « O ye who believe! stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor: for Allah can best protect both. Follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest ye swerve, and if ye distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do. » This verse emphasizes that justice must be upheld even if it goes against one’s own interests or those of close relatives. It is a call to be impartial and to prioritize truth over personal bias. The command is directed to all believers, male and female, and it is a cornerstone of Islamic ethics.
Justice in Marital Disputes
The Quran also addresses the delicate area of marital disputes. « If a wife fears cruelty or desertion on her husband’s part, there is no blame on them if they arrange an amicable settlement between themselves; and such settlement is best; even though men’s souls are swayed by greed. But if ye do good and practise self-restraint, Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do. » This verse encourages reconciliation and peaceful settlement, emphasizing that doing good and exercising self-restraint are better than pursuing selfish desires. It shows that Islam values harmony and justice in family life, and it provides a framework for resolving conflicts without oppression.
Listening Is an Act of Worship
The Prophet ﷺ was known for his attentive listening. The Quran instructs the wives of the Prophet ﷺ to « speak ye a speech (that is) just », highlighting the importance of measured and just speech. But listening is equally important. The Prophet ﷺ said, « Allah does not listen as attentively to anything as He listens to a prophet with a melodious voice chanting the Qur’an audibly. » This hadith indicates that Allah’s listening is a model for us; He listens with full attention. As believers, we are encouraged to listen to others with the same attentiveness, especially when they are seeking justice or expressing a grievance.
The Example of Umm Salamah
Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Prophet ﷺ heard voices arguing at his door. He went out and said, « I am only a human being, and you refer your disputes to me. Perhaps some of you are more eloquent than others, so I deem him truthful and rule in his favor. He whom I, by my judgment, give an undue share of a Muslim’s right, then it is indeed a portion of fire, so let him burden himself with it or abandon it. » This teaches that even a judge must be cautious, for human judgment is fallible. The Prophet ﷺ acknowledged his own humanity and warned against the dangers of partiality. It underscores the need for careful listening and humility when adjudicating between people.
Women’s Rights and Dignity in the Quran
The Quran is clear that men and women are equal in their potential for righteousness. « For Muslim men and women,- for believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant, for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in Charity, for men and women who fast (and deny themselves), for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah’s praise,- for them has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward. » This verse lists various virtues and explicitly includes both genders, promising the same reward. Additionally, « If any do deeds of righteousness,- be they male or female – and have faith, they will enter Heaven, and not the least injustice will be done to them. » These verses affirm that spiritual excellence is not gender-specific. The story of the woman who was heard above the seven heavens is a testament to this truth.
The Superiority of Righteous Women
The Prophet ﷺ said, « Many men attained perfection, but of women none attained perfection except Āsiyah, the wife of Pharaoh, and Maryam, the daughter of ‘Imrān. Indeed, the superiority of ‘Ā’ishah to other women is like the superiority of Tharīd to other meals. » This hadith highlights the high status of righteous women. It also shows that a woman’s faith and character can elevate her to the highest ranks, even surpassing many men. The Quranic narrative and prophetic teachings consistently uphold the dignity and worth of women.
What Do You Still Wonder About This Story?
Who was the woman heard above the seven heavens?
She was Khawlah bint Tha’labah, who complained to the Prophet ﷺ about her husband’s treatment. Allah revealed the first verse of Surah Al-Mujaadila in response, confirming that He heard her plea.
What does the Quran say about listening to women’s complaints?
The Quran, in Surah Al-Mujaadila, shows that Allah Himself listens to a woman’s complaint and responds. This sets a precedent that women’s voices are to be heard and taken seriously.
How does Islam ensure justice for women?
Islam commands justice for all, regardless of gender. Verses like An-Nisaa 135 and Al-Mujaadila 1 establish that women have the right to seek justice and that their testimonies and grievances are valid.
What is the significance of the story of Khawlah for modern Muslims?
It reminds us that every individual, especially women, has the right to be heard and to seek justice. It also encourages communities to listen attentively to grievances and to resolve them fairly.
Does Islam consider women inferior to men?
No. The Quran states that men and women are equal in their potential for righteousness and reward. Hadiths like H7 highlight the excellence of righteous women. Differences in certain roles do not imply inferiority.
How can I learn more about Islamic teachings on justice?
You can explore the Quran and authentic hadiths. Tools like the Al Muslim Plus app provide access to Quranic verses, hadith collections, and educational resources to deepen your understanding.
The story of the woman heard above the seven heavens is a powerful reminder of the centrality of justice and listening in Islam. It teaches us that every voice matters to Allah, and it calls us to embody these values in our own lives. To continue your journey of learning, explore the rich resources available on Al Muslim Plus. Explore Islamic tools and ask the Islamic AI for any questions you may have. May Allah guide us all to justice and righteousness.
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Sources vérifiées
Citations recoupées mot pour mot avec le corpus canonique (Coran / hadiths).
- Sourate Al-Mujaadila, verset 1
- Sourate An-Nisaa, verset 135
- Sourate An-Nisaa, verset 128
- Sourate Al-Ahzaab, verset 35
- Sourate An-Nisaa, verset 124
- Sourate Al-Ahzaab, verset 32
- Hadith n°8295 (Narrated by Ibn Majah – Narrated by Bukhari – An-Nasaa’i – Narrated by Ahmad) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°2959 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°11179 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°6218 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith