Islam gives credence to women, certifying towards them respect, honor, dignity and equality. In the centuries prior to Islam, women were illtreated, looked upon as commodities and were given very little or any value at all.
The status of women in Islam can only really be appreciated when the position of women is examined pre-Islam, known as Jahiliyyah (the period of ignorance). Conversely, the Quran generally speaks about women with high regard, respect and dignity.
In the context of the days of ignorance, women through Quranic revelation were uplifted and given a new leash of life. Since Islam was revealed to mankind, a new page was turned and women were lifted out from a darkness to a shining ray of light.
They were given rights, fairness, justice, and were held in high esteem. Allah orders proper treatment and deference to women in the Quran in Surat An-Nisa (4:1):
"Fear Allah through whom you demand your mutual (rights) and (revere) the wombs
(That bore you): for Allah Ever watches over you." During the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him) social change with respect to gender
relations was implemented.
The wider Arabian socio-cultural society ill treated women and Islam and bought about radical change and enhancement to the lives of women who were now seen as individuals with hope and aspirations.
