Women’s Right to Attend the Mosque

Women Attending the Mosque Sahih al-Bukhari

Narrated Ibn Umar (RA): One of the wives of Umar (bin Al Khattab) used to offer the Fajr and the Isha Salat (prayers) in congregation in the mosque. 

She was asked why she had come out for the Salat as she knew that Umar disliked it, and he has great Ghaira (self-respect). 

She replied, What prevents him from stopping me from this act? The other replied, The statement of Allah's Messenger (PBUH): Do not stop Allah's Ima (women-slaves) from going to Allah's Mosques, prevents him.

Key Lessons from This Hadith

Women’s Right to Attend Mosques: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) advised that men should not stop women from going to the mosque if they want to attend.

Balance of Ghaira and Sunnah: Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) was known for his strong protective feelings, yet he chose not to stop his wife from going out. This was because he recognized that the Prophet's (ﷺ) command was more important.

Importance of Following Prophetic Guidance: This Hadith illustrates that our own feelings and preferences should align with the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Spiritual Equality: Islam provides women with the chance to pray in mosques, as long as they adhere to the principles of modesty and respect outlined in Islamic teachings.

Conclusion

Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) was known for his strong sense of ghaira, which reflects a protective self-respect. Despite this, he did not stop his wife from going to the mosque. 

This was in line with the Prophet's (ﷺ) teaching: Do not prevent Allah’s female servants from attending the mosques of Allah.

This narration teaches us an important principle in Islam: women are permitted to attend the mosque for prayers, should they choose to do so, provided they maintain modesty and respect in their behavior.

Hadith Reference:

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari

Hadith No: 900

Volume: 02

Page No: 30-31

Book: The Book of Al Jumuah (Friday)

Chapter: To use (hair) oil (on getting prepared) for the Salat-ul-Jumuah (Friday prayer).

Narrated By: Ibn Umar (RA:)

Translator: Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan