THE MODERATE PERSPECTIVE OF YUSUF AL-QARDHAWI ON CAREER WOMEN

Women and their role in society has been a long and often controversial topic of discussion in Islamic history. On the one hand, some scholars interpret the role of women as limited to housewives and taking care of the family. But on the other hand, there are scholars who provide more open space for women to have a career outside the home. One of the leading figures who has a moderate view on this issue is Yusuf Al-Qardhawi. This paper examines his moderate views by exploring his thoughts on career women while still considering the rules of sharia and the social realities of modern society. He is one of the leading contemporary scholars on career women. Using the literature review method of Al-Qardhawi's works, this research presents the key points of his views. Al-Qardhawi views that women have the right to work and have a career outside the home, as long as the work is in accordance with women's nature and does not violate the boundaries of Islamic law. He emphasizes the need for balance between a woman's role as a housewife and career. Women should prioritize their primary obligations of taking care of the household and educating children before choosing a career. If women are forced to work due to economic factors or the absence of other breadwinners in the family, then women are allowed to have a career while still observing the Shari'ah rules in interacting with the opposite sex and maintaining their honor.