ABSTRACT
The status of Islamic women differs among the various Islamic countries, each with its own view and considerations about women. As Islam spreads, the different countries and their cultures may interpret Islamic religion and law differently, especially with regard to their attitudes toward women. Both matriarchal and patriarchal systems were evident during Muhammad’s pre-Islamic life. In pre-Islamic times, women were severely punished if they committed adultery. The practice of exclusion was a pivotal factor in the deterioration of the status of women in Islam. Although divorce under Islam was to the benefit of men, it was not to be taken hastily by husbands. The Qur’an allowed women to keep their dowries and departure of women after divorce was to be conducted with kindness and with no damage to the women’s reputation. In pre-Islamic times, women were severely punished if they committed adultery.
