Women's Rights Embedded in Their Islamic Duties: A Maqasid-Based Social Perspective Informed by Prophetic Guidance

Contemporary discourse, influenced by globalization and feminist movements, often reframes certain Islamic duties imposed on women as restrictions on their freedom or dignity. Such perceptions stem from fragmented interpretations of religious texts or miscontextualized analyses shaped by external value systems. This study adopts an alternative perspective, viewing these duties as intentional Islamic rights legislated to achieve higher objectives, such as preserving honor, safeguarding dignity, and fostering familial and societal balance. Grounded in the maqasid al-shari’ah framework, as established by Al-Shatibi and developed by Ibn Ashur, and informed by applied Prophetic guidance, this research aims to provide an analytical reading that bridges religious texts’ higher objectives with the contemporary challenges faced by women, balancing authenticity and modernity. The study examines specific rulings, including hijab, qawamah (male guardianship), the requirement of a mahram for travel, and the regulation of testimony, analyzing their maqasid and social implications and their role in preserving family and societal stability. Employing a descriptive-analytical method supported by a maqasid-based approach, the study concludes that these duties serve as mechanisms to balance obligation and honor, contributing to the preservation of values, justice, and stability within the social system.