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Is the preference for men over women to be understood from the fact that prophethood was placed among them, similar to understanding the preference for the Arabic language or the Quraysh tribe merely because the Quran was revealed in Arabic or because the Prophet was from them?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The male gender is generally superior to the female gender. The preference for men over women has been in positions of authority, prophethood, messengership, acts of worship, intellect, and financial provision. The fact that prophethood and messengership were exclusive to men is evidence of their superiority. However, this preference is not absolute, as not every male is superior to every female; superiority is based on piety.

As for the superiority of Quraysh, it is indicated by the texts: they are the best of the Arabs, and Banu Hashim are the best of Quraysh, and the Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, is the best of Banu Hashim. This superiority is not merely because the Prophet was from them, but they are inherently superior.

As for the Arabic language, its virtue and status come from the revelation of the Qur’an in it. Learning it is essential for understanding the Qur’an and Sunnah and contemplating their meanings. It is part of the religion, and knowing it is an obligation.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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