Understanding Femininity and Masculinity in Islam

Femininity and masculinity are complex social constructs that have evolved over time, shaped by different cultures, religions, and ideologies. These constructs define what is considered "appropriate" behavior, roles, and attributes for men and women in society. However, different worldviews have different interpretations of what constitutes masculinity and femininity. This article explores the Western and Islamic perspectives on these constructs, highlighting the weaknesses of the Western view, especially in light of recent controversies, such as the case of the Algerian boxer competing in the Paris Olympics, which underscores the paradoxical and often hypocritical stance of Western views on gender.

Western Perspectives on Femininity and Masculinity

In the Western world, the concepts of femininity and masculinity have undergone significant transformation. From the rigid gender norms of the 19th and early 20th centuries to more fluid and “inclusive” understandings in contemporary times, Western views on gender have been shaped by historical, cultural, social, and psychological factors.

Traditionally, Western societies have often portrayed masculinity and femininity in binary and opposing terms. Masculinity was associated with strength, rationality, assertiveness, and leadership, while femininity was linked to nurturing, empathy, beauty, and domesticity. These constructs were influenced by patriarchal structures that defined men as leaders and breadwinners and women as followers and homemakers. Women were considered as less intelligent and not capable of certain things, such as voting and working.

With the rise of feminism, civil rights movements, and LGBTQ+ activism in the 20th century, these rigid definitions began to be questioned and dismantled. Modern Western perspectives increasingly view masculinity and femininity as fluid, socially constructed concepts rather than fixed biological determinants. Gender is seen as a spectrum, where individuals can express both traditionally "masculine" and "feminine" traits, regardless of their biological sex. This has led to a greater acceptance of non-binary, transgender, and genderqueer identities, challenging the traditional binaries of masculinity and femininity.

The Western perspective on gender remains fraught with contradictions and hypocrisies, particularly when viewed through the lens of recent events like the controversy involving the Algerian boxer at the Paris Olympics. The boxer, who is a biological woman, has been criticized by some Western media outlets and sports authorities for allegedly possessing higher levels of "masculine" hormones, suggesting that she should not be allowed to compete against other women.

This controversy is particularly illuminating when juxtaposed with the growing acceptance of transgender women (biological males who identify as females) in women’s sports in the West. Many of the same voices that critique the Algerian boxer for her natural hormonal levels are also advocating for the inclusion of transgender women in women’s sports, even though these athletes may have biological advantages due to male puberty.

This paradox highlights a deep inconsistency in the Western understanding of femininity and masculinity. On one hand, a biological woman with naturally occurring hormonal differences is criticized and policed, while on the other, biological men who identify as women are embraced as fully feminine, even if they maintain some physical advantages. This reveals a fundamental flaw in the Western narrative: the concept of gender fluidity is championed, but only selectively and often at the expense of biological women.

Islamic Perspectives on Femininity and Masculinity

The Islamic view on femininity and masculinity is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran, the Hadith (sayings and practices of Prophet Muhammad), and the overall Islamic worldview (Tawhid). Islam provides a distinct framework for understanding gender roles, responsibilities, and expressions, which often contrasts with contemporary Western notions.

Foundational Principles

In Islam, both men and women are seen as equal in the eyes of God (Allah), but they are considered to have different, complementary roles and responsibilities. This complementarity is not seen as a hierarchy but rather as a divinely ordained balance where each gender fulfills its role within the family and society. The Quran states,

[وَمِنْ آيَاتِهِ أَنْ خَلَقَ لَكُم مِّنْ أَنفُسِكُمْ أَزْوَاجًا لِّتَسْكُنُوا إِلَيْهَا وَجَعَلَ بَيْنَكُم مَّوَدَّةً وَرَحْمَةً ۚ إِنَّ فِي ذَٰلِكَ لَآيَاتٍ لِّقَوْمٍ يَتَفَكَّرُونَ]

“And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy” [Quran 30:21].

Femininity in Islam

Islamic femininity is characterized by qualities such as modesty, compassion, nurturing, and moral strength. The concept of modesty (haya) is particularly emphasized for women in both behavior and dress. However, this modesty is not seen as a sign of weakness or oppression; rather, it is a conscious choice to maintain dignity and protect one’s inner and outer self.

Islam also acknowledges the critical role of women in society beyond just domestic responsibilities. Women like Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (ra), the Prophet Muhammad’s first wife, were successful businesswomen and are revered in Islamic history. Aisha bint Abi Bakr (ra), another wife of the Prophet (saw), is noted for her scholarly contributions and is considered one of the most important figures in early Islamic jurisprudence.

Masculinity in Islam

Islamic masculinity is often associated with qualities such as strength, courage, justice, and moral integrity. However, these attributes are tempered by the emphasis on humility, kindness, and compassion. The Prophet Muhammad (saw) is considered the ideal model of Islamic masculinity, blending strength and leadership with empathy, humility, and respect for women. Men are generally seen as providers and protectors in the family, but this is balanced by the emphasis on cooperation, kindness, and shared responsibilities. For instance, the Prophet Muhammad often helped with household chores and stressed the importance of treating women with respect and dignity.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the Algerian boxer at the Paris Olympics highlights a fundamental flaw in the Western understanding of femininity and masculinity: an inconsistent application of its own principles that often results in paradoxical outcomes. While Western views increasingly emphasize fluidity and the dismantling of traditional norms, the Islamic perspective focuses on balance, complementarity, and divine guidance.

Written for the Central Media Office of Hizb ut Tahrir by
Sumaya Bint Khayyat