In our modern society there are often very diverse views regarding the status and roles of women. If the idea is taken through a religious perspective, there exists a wide possibility that in certain religions women are seen as inferior to their male counterparts. Particularly in Islam, this notion of oppression and gender inferiority can be interpreted through various lenses. Islamic history, the life of prophet Muhammad and certainly the Qur'an all offer evidence that gender equality should indeed exist between men and women. However, there are very distinct interpretations of this notion that are whether made by scholars or influenced by societal norms which shape the gender views in Islam.
In early Islamic history women have been individuals that molded the perspective of being strong models, leaders, and forces in history. One of the most crucial figures was without a doubt Khadijah, the wife of prophet Muhammad. She is described as being a loyal figure in Muhammad's life that supported him through all aspects. In addition, she was the first person to convert to Islam and therefore can be labeled as an exemplary person that set the path for the future Muslim community. Through her conversion into the faith, she was also a very strong and devout Muslim that even sacrificed her wealth in the cause of Islam. As in 617 the Meccans decided to impose an economic protest on the Muslims and certain members of the Quraysh tribe, the Muslim community suffered immensely due to this occurrence and Khadijah aided them with her own wealth to bear this hardship. Furthermore, another woman that was a significant figure in the historical Muslim world was Fatima the daughter of prophet Muhammad and Khadijah. She is said to have lived a very modest life following the command of the Qur'an with her husband Ali and her children; they were seen as the model family for other community members to look up to.
