Kiramat (Generosity) and the Status of Woman in Qur’an

The story of the creation of man and woman in the Qur’an differs infundamental ways from the story of creation in the Bible. The Qur’an explainsthat, contiguous with the creation of Adam, was the creation of his mate from thesame material and essence. These two, Adam and Eve, hold equal positions as Allah’skhalafah(vicegerent) on earth. This article discusses the Kiramat(generosity)of women in the Qur’an with respect to their creation, status, understanding, abilityto be guided, devoutness to God, and freedom to choose. It delineates the specificexpression of kiramat for women in modest dress, behavior and in procreation. Herrole as a mother places a unique burden upon her, not only to maintain her ownstatus before Allah, but also to safeguard the spiritual health of children and preparethem to assume the role of vicegerent of Allah in the future.