Was fatwa no. 129389, which describes women as deficient in intellect and religion, based on a correct and complete understanding of the Prophetic حديث (Hadith) and Qur'anic verses? Does the deficiency in intellect mentioned in the Hadith necessitate labeling women with it in all aspects of life? And why aren't their religious obligations lessened if their intellect is deficient?
A woman is overcome by emotion in both anger and pleasure, while a man is better able to control his emotions. Therefore, men must be gentle and lenient with women, based on the noble Prophet's recommendation: "Treat women kindly, for woman was created from a rib, and the most crooked part of the rib is its upper part. If you try to straighten it, you will break it, and if you leave it, it will remain crooked. So, treat women kindly." And his saying: "Indeed, a woman was created from a rib and will not be straightened for you in any way. If you enjoy her, you enjoy her while she has a crookedness, and if you try to straighten her, you will break her, and her breaking is her divorce." These hadiths are not an aspersion on women, but rather an exhortation to treat them kindly and to consider their nature, which leads to a safe and happy marital home.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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