26 Nov Gender Based Violence
Activism against Gender-based Violence
Activism against Gender Based Violence is an international annual campaign that set about to challenge violence against women and girls. It runs from 25th November to 10th December and has been running for almost 30 years.
This campaign has been backed by Waltham Forest Council.
In recognition of this campaign, Shaykh Mohamed Abdulle, Imam of Noor Ul Islam writes how gender-based violence has no place in Islam and is something that goes against our religion.
Gender Based Violence (GBV) has no place in Islam
All Praise is due to Allah and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad (SAW), his family, his companion and all those who follow his footsteps until the Last Day.
Islam is a very peaceful religion which forbids violence. Human beings are honoured by their creator, Allah (SWT). He Said,
“And indeed We have honoured the Children of Adam, and We have carried them on land and see, and have provided them with At-Tayyibat (lawful good things), and have preferred them above many of those whom We have created with a marked preferment.” (Quran, 17:70)
Iyad Ibn Himar (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said,
“Allah, the Most High has revealed to me that you (people) should be humble, so that no one transgresses another, or boasts to the other.” (Related by Muslim)
Taking the above into consideration, we realise that our interactions with each other must be one of humility. Therefore, violence that takes place against a person because of their gender has no place in Islam.
Causes of Gender Based Violence (GBV)
1- Lack of proper Education
2- Cultural influences where some men think it is justifiable that they can abuse their wives and girls (or vice versa)
3- War and conflicts: people fleeing from their houses resulting in some women and girls falling into the hands of merciless criminals
Prevention for GBV
It is essential that we prevent such practices like Gender Based Violence so that our family members can live better and enjoyable lives. We must educate people about their real rights, duties, and responsibilities – generally within the society and particularly within the family members. Norms and values of each society should be safeguarded at all times.
Solutions for GBV
1- Establishment of social justice system in every community. There are Islamic rulings from the Holy Quran and the Hadiths of our Prophet (SAW) for every single crime committed by anyone in the society
2- Availability of well-trained social advisers within every society
3- A quick response from the authorities whenever Gender Based Violence occurs
4- In the case of conflicts and displacements – women, girls, and the vulnerable should be specially protected and cared for by their responsible family members and/or authorities
Conclusion
Women and girls deserve respect, kindness, and good treatment in every aspect of life. They are our mothers, daughters, sisters, and aunts. Their well-being is our well-being. Islam encourages peace, happiness, and social justice. It is our responsibilities to safeguard the life and the dignity of every innocent human being. We must collaborate with each other to make that achievements. Allah (SWT) said,
“Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety); but do not help one another in sin and transgression.” (Qur’an,5:2).
May Allah (SWT) guide us to the right path and make us successful in this life and life hereafter
Shaykh Mohamed Abdulle
If you found this useful, please consider making a donation to Noor Ul Islam. We rely on our community to fund our progress. Now is as important as ever for you to continue supporting your Masjid.
The Prophet (Pbuh) has taught us the best of deeds are those that done consistently, even if they are small.