The Qur‘an: One Woman Equals to One Man in the Court of Law

By T.O. Shanavas, New Age Islam 16 May 2024 It is often argued that some modern interpretations among Muslims have contributed to Western criticisms of Islam's treatment of women. A common point of contention is the interpretation of the Quranic verse 2:282, which discusses the testimony of witnesses. Many interpret this verse to suggest that the testimony of two women is equivalent to that of one man. It is important to challenge and correct any misinterpretations that perpetuate harmful stereotypes or discrimination. A more careful reading of the verse may reveal a different meaning, suggesting that cultural interpretations rather than the text itself may be at the root of such criticisms. By promoting a more inclusive and equitable interpretation of religious teachings, we can strive for a more just and compassionate society. The verse in question reads, “…but if he who owes the debt is unsound in understanding, or weak, or (if) he is not able to dictate himself, let his guardian dictate with fairness; and call in to witness from among your men two witnesses; but if there are not two men, then one man and two women from among those whom you choose to be witnesses, so that if one of the two (مِنَ الشُّهَدَاءِ ) errs ( أَنْ تَضِلَّ ), the second of the two may remind ( فَتُذَكِّرَ ) the other ( إِحْدَاهُمَا );…-Quran 2:282.” Verse 2:282 of the Quran discusses the roles of witnesses, and it is often misinterpreted to suggest that the testimony of two women is required to equal that of one man. It is crucial to approach religious texts with a nuanced and contextual understanding, rather than using them to justify discriminatory beliefs. In the case of Verse, the emphasis is on upholding honesty and integrity in testimony, rather than on gender inequality. The text reveals that the presence of the second woman is not a witness but is intended to ensure accurate recall for the witnessing woman; she is there to remind the first witnessing woman if she errs in her testimony. This arrangement is about supporting accurate and truthful reporting, emphasizing the importance of consciousness and fear of God to avoid false testimony. Therefore, the medieval misogynistic ruling that one man is equal to two women in terms of witness in Islam is a misguided interpretation, as the text supports equality in the witnessing role. The Qur'an acknowledges the reality of male dominance in human societies, a phenomenon not exclusive to any one culture or era. This is evident even in contemporary Western societies, including America. In what is considered a free society, there is still a need, similar to the one addressed in the Quranic verse, for women to support one another in maintaining truthfulness. Even powerful, educated, and respected women can be pressured by their spouses to provide false testimony. Medical professionals often encounter abused women in emergency rooms and clinics who are hesitant to disclose the true causes of their injuries and identify those responsible due to fear. This underscores the continuing relevance of mechanisms that encourage truthfulness and support among women, as recognized by the Qur'an. Even in the highest echelons of power, such as the White House, we find evidence of male domination affecting the truth. Historical records suggest that President Nixon's wife suffered an injury resulting from domestic violence. Similarly, during the Clinton administration, Mrs. Hillary Clinton, despite her legal expertise and education from Yale, appeared to defend her husband on national television over allegations involving Monica Lewinsky, which many viewed as demeaning to her dignity and to women in general. She publicly stated that he was “innocent” concerning his involvement with Monica. These examples highlight how even in a society that prides itself on freedom and equality, powerful women can be compelled to distort the truth under male pressure. If such scenarios are evident in the lives of prominent women in America, one can only imagine the challenges faced by less empowered women globally, especially at the time of the revelation of the Qur’an. The Quranic verses, when read in conjunction with such real-life examples, illustrate the wisdom in having a supportive witness to remind one of the importance of God-consciousness and truthfulness in testimony. This guidance considers the realities of human psychology and the societal pressures that can influence personal integrity. ---- T.O. Shanavas is a native of Kerala, but is now based in the USA. He is the author of “Islamic Theory of evolution of Evolution The Missing Link Between Darwin and The Origin of Species.” Co-author of the book, And God Said, "Let There Be Evolution!": Reconciling The Book Of Genesis, The Qur'an, And The Theory Of Evolution. Edited by Prof. Charles M. Wynn and Prof. Arthur W. Wiggins. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-women-feminism/quran-equals-man-court-law/d/132326 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism