Author(s): Munaza Banoo

Abstract: The contemporary and post-modern periods have challenged the common belief that feminism originated in the West and that Islam and feminism are naturally at odds with each other. In fact, the Qur'an itself contains the fundamental principles that support gender equality. Within the framework of Islamic teachings, gender justice is rooted in the values of equality, mutual responsibility, and shared spiritual accountability. Muslim feminist scholars have consistently pointed out that Islamic feminism has been misunderstood, misrepresented, and even distorted in various ways. It is often wrongly labeled as being against religion or against family values, but this is usually a result of cultural practices rather than the actual teachings of Islam. My interest in this topic comes from a genuine desire to explore and understand how Islam perceives gender equality, especially in light of the evolving discussions and movements within modern feminist thought.

Keywords: Religion, Islamic feminism, gender justice, misrepresentation

Article Info: Received: 01 May 2026; Received in revised form: 27 May 2026; Accepted: 31 May 2026; Available online: 04 Jun 2026

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.113.50