In the realm of Islamic history, there are several false sayings attributed to `Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) that misrepresent his stance on women. Specifically, it is sometimes claimed that the second Caliph said, “Prevent the women from learning how to write! Say no to their capricious ways,” or that he advised, “Adopt positions opposite to those of women. There is great merit in such opposition.”
These attributions contradict the spirit of Islam, the commands of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and the historical reality of `Umar’s own family.
The Obligation of Knowledge for All
First, it is essential to establish that seeking useful education and knowledge is mandatory upon both men and women in Islam. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) commanded all Muslims to seek knowledge.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said:
“He who goes forth in search of knowledge is considered as struggling in the Cause of Allah until he returns.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2647)
This wording is general and encompasses all Muslims, regardless of gender. Thus, every Muslim woman has a God-given right to education and skills training.
Historical Evidence: The Literacy of Hafsah
To debunk the false sayings attributed to Umar ibn Al-Khattab regarding writing, one need only look at the example of his own daughter, Hafsah bint Umar (may Allah be pleased with her), the Mother of the Believers.
During a time when literacy was rare, Hafsah was one of the few people who had learned the art of writing. Furthermore, the original written script of the Qur’an—from which all subsequent copies were made—was entrusted to her care.
It is illogical to claim that `Umar forbade women from learning to write when his own daughter was literate and was the custodian of the most sacred text in Islamic history. If he had discouraged female literacy, he would not have allowed his daughter to acquire this skill.
Women’s Active Role in the Early Community
Women in the early Muslim community were not silenced; they played an active role in the transmission and interpretation of the faith.
It is worth recalling the example of Umar’s own sister, Fatimah bint Al-Khattab. It was her devout recitation of the Qur’an that was instrumental in converting Umar to the faith when he was initially one of its fiercest opponents. Her relationship with the text gave her a voice that changed the course of history.
Conclusion: Returning to Authentic Sources
Muslims must be cautious against fragmentary or fabricated quotes that circulate in various sources. The Qur’an and the model of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) reveal a system that empowers women as vicegerents on earth.
The claims that `Umar ibn Al-Khattab advocated for ignorance or opposition to women are historically unfounded and contradict the values of the Rightly Guided Caliphs.
