Women’s Role in Islamic Propagation: Lessons from Jamaat Tabligh of Pakistan

 Rehana Majeed, Pakistan

Introduction

Islam, as revealed by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), is a magnificent system that established justice, equity, and comfort for all. It grants men and women unparalleled rights, transforming perceptions and societal norms. The birth of a daughter is celebrated as a profound blessing, and the pursuit of knowledge is mandated for every Muslim, empowering individuals to illuminate their lives and communities through education.

Women are encouraged to engage actively in constructive and developmental activities, embracing their natural strengths. Their rights and dignity are upheld and cherished, allowing them to take on esteemed roles in family and society. While a woman’s primary influence often starts at home, she is empowered to expand her horizons by participating in vital roles, including religious propagation (dawah).

Women as Pioneers of Islamic Propagation

The legacy of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) stands as a powerful testament to the impactful role women play in religious propagation. His wives, daughters, and female companions actively contributed to spreading the teachings of Islam. For instance, Syeda Aisha (رضی اللہ عنھا) was a distinguished scholar in Islamic sciences, paving the way for generations to learn and grow in faith. Syeda Ume Salama (رضی الله عنھا), a revered jurist, showcased the intellectual prowess women possess, addressing complex religious matters with grace and wisdom.

Allah’s profound command in the Quran encourages all believers:

“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good advice…” (Surah An-Nahl: 125). This sacred responsibility beautifully unites men and women, creating a spirit of collaboration in enjoining good. Allah celebrates this partnership:

“The believing men and believing women are allies of one another.” (Surah At-Tawbah: 71).

Motivated by this divine philosophy, Maulana Muhammad Ilyas founded Tablighi Jamaat, igniting a movement that profoundly impacts communities. Particularly in the Indian subcontinent, women have emerged as formidable contributors, driving the mission forward with determination and passion.

Objectives of Women’s Participation in Tablighi Jamaat

Women’s involvement in Tablighi Jamaat is aimed at fulfilling noble objectives that resonate deeply within the Ummah:

1. Reviving Faith: This movement is dedicated to igniting the true essence of faith, emphasizing depth over mere ritualistic practices.
2. Instilling Religious Consciousness: Women strive to rekindle the intrinsic value of religion in their hearts, nurturing a powerful desire to embody Islamic principles.
3. Encouraging Trust in Allah’s Promises: Inspired by the Prophet’s faith, women are guided to trust Allah, embracing His promises with unwavering conviction.
4. Strengthening the Connection with Allah: The aim is to cultivate a profound relationship with Allah, encouraging the practice of Shariah in every aspect of daily life.
5. Reviving the Sunnah: Their efforts aim to rejuvenate the Sunnah, calling believers to embrace practices that yield abundant rewards.
6. Supporting Men in Religious Efforts: Women provide invaluable support to their male counterparts, expertly managing household responsibilities while fostering a nurturing environment for spiritual growth.

Structure and Organization of Women’s Activities

Women in Tablighi Jamaat work within a structured framework to facilitate effective preaching and personal enhancement. Their organized activities include:

Preaching Sessions: Women conduct daily sessions with enlightening talks and insightful discussions on Quranic lessons and Islamic teachings.

Personal Development: Evening gatherings centre around memorizing prayers and verses, sharing the inspiring stories of the Companions, and committing to self-improvement.

Recruitment and Training: Each group actively recruits participants from their communities and diligently prepares them for their future roles in propagation.

Their participation is progressive, advancing through impactful stages:

1. Three-day dawah trips within local cities, providing a foundation for further outreach.
2. Fifteen-day dawah trips beyond city limits, allowing deeper engagement and practice.
3. Four-month dawah trips abroad enriching their understanding and ability to share Islamic teachings universally.

Financial responsibilities are embraced collectively among group members, embodying the principles of unity, cooperation, and shared responsibility that strengthen communal bonds.

Challenges Faced by Women in Tablighi Jamaat

Despite their dedication, women face several challenges in their propagation efforts:

1. Limited Curriculum: The structured syllabus can present obstacles for participants, particularly older women, limiting their engagement.
2. Restricted Outreach: Activities confined to specific households or neighbourhoods can hinder broader interaction with diverse communities.
3. Lack of Modern Knowledge: Preparing to address contemporary issues can be daunting, especially in connecting with younger audiences.
4. Financial and Health Constraints: Limited financial resources and challenging environmental conditions can impede active participation.

Recommendations for Improvement

To nurture the effectiveness of women’s activities within Tablighi Jamaat, the following recommendations shine brightly:

1. Flexible Curriculum: Expanding the syllabus to include modern topics and methods will empower women to connect more effectively with younger generations.
2. Broader Outreach: Encouraging cross-sectarian and interfaith dialogue will widen the reach of their efforts and foster understanding.
3. Modern Tools and Training: Training on contemporary issues and effective communication will empower women to engage meaningfully with their audiences.

Implementing these changes can elevate women’s roles, enhance their vital contributions to Islamic propagation, and foster a more informed, united, and spiritually enriched community. Together, they can inspire others and forge a path of continuous growth and understanding.