Q: Is man superior to woman in this world and the next (Akhirah)?
A: In this worldly life, for the administration of the world, Allah Ta‘ala has granted men a rank higher than women. In the Qur'aan Majeed, Allah Ta’ala says: “Men have been granted a level of superiority over them (women).” (Surah Baqarah, verse 228)
In another verse, Allah Ta‘ala says: “Men have been made in charge of women on account of the fact that Allah Ta‘ala has granted some of them (men) superiority over others (women).” (Surah Nisaa, verse 34)
The reason for Allah Ta‘ala making men be in charge of their women is that generally women are weaker than men in their physic, bodily strength, reasoning ability, analyzing situations, decision making, etc. Hence, Allah Ta‘ala made them in charge of their women so that they will protect them, fend for them and take good care of them. This higher position which men have been granted over women is not so that they abuse them, take advantage of them or exploit them.
As far as the hereafter is concerned, then Allah Ta‘ala has granted men and women equal opportunities to progress and reach high ranks and stages in the hereafter. This progress will be achieved through one bringing taqwa in his/her life. The person who brings more taqwa in his life and remains obedient to Allah Ta‘ala, will be granted a higher position in the sight of Allah Ta‘ala and in the hereafter.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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