The Concept of 'Fitna' in Islamic Thought: Can Women be described as 'Fitna,' as Some Ulama do?

By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 25 February 2025 The Concept of "Fitna" in Islamic Thought: A Scholarly Examination Introduction The term Fitna holds a significant and multi-layered meaning in Islamic tradition, particularly within the Quran and Hadith. In both texts, it often appears as a term for tribulation, trial, or temptation. However, in some contexts, the usage of Fitna has led to misunderstandings, especially when certain groups attempt to extract meanings that align with corruption. One of the primary points of contention is whether a woman, in Islamic thought, is inherently a "Fitna" (trial or temptation). This article seeks to address this issue by analysing the usage of the term Fitna in the Quran and Hadith, considering its broader meanings, and offering clarification regarding misconceptions, particularly around the perception of women in Islam. Defining Fitna in Arabic and Islamic Context The word Fitna in classical Arabic has several meanings, all of which revolve around the idea of testing, trial, or disturbance. At its core, Fitna signifies something that challenges a person's faith or piety. This can be a test from Allah or an external temptation that distracts or leads one astray. The term is frequently used in the Quran and Hadith to describe both the trials of life and the personal struggles that individuals may face in maintaining their faith. Tribulation or Test (اختبار) In the Quran, Fitna is frequently used to refer to trials or tests that Allah uses to evaluate the faith of His servants. Surah Al-Anfal (8:28) is one such example, where wealth and children are described as a Fitna or trial: "And know that your wealth and children are but a trial (Fitna)..." (8:28). This indicates that these worldly possessions, while not inherently harmful, can become sources of temptation that may lead one away from the righteous path if they are prioritized over spiritual duties. Example to Understand This Concept: Consider a father who loves his children and his wife deeply and works hard to provide for them. If, however, he chooses to earn his living through unlawful means (haram), such as stealing or engaging in dishonest business practices, just to provide for his family, this is the exact behaviour that the Quran advises against. Similarly, if someone loves a woman, it is necessary for them to follow the lawful path of marriage (nikah) to establish a relationship with her. A relationship outside of marriage is not only harmful to the individual's faith, but it also deviates from the correct approach outlined in Islam. Today, many people earn money through forbidden means in order to provide for their children's well-being. Sometimes, this even involves wronging others—stealing from or depriving others of their rights—just to achieve financial success. This is the exact type of wealth that is prohibited in Islam. Thus, it becomes clear that women and children have been made a Fitna (test) for us. We must be cautious not to adopt sinful practices or methods to fulfil our responsibilities toward them. Furthermore, while fulfilling the rights of a wife and children, one must not neglect the rights of Allah. If a person fails to maintain this balance and only focuses on worldly gains while disregarding their spiritual obligations, they fail their trial, and thus, have not succeeded in the test given by Allah. Temptation or Seduction (إغواء): Fitna can also refer to seduction or the allure of distractions that can divert a person’s focus from the worship of Allah. The term carries with it the implication that external things—whether wealth, power, or physical attraction—may tempt someone to choose the wrong path, thus causing a trial or difficulty for the individual. Women and Fitna in Islamic Thought The question arises: Is a woman inherently a Fitna? Certain hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mention that women are a form of Fitna or trial. This has raised concerns among some Muslim women who feel that such statements imply that women themselves are inherently problematic or a source of temptation. In modern discourse, critics, especially from Western feminist or liberal perspectives, have sometimes used these references to claim that Islam sees women as inherently inferior or as sources of societal problems. However, this interpretation is a misunderstanding of the intended meaning of Fitna in these hadiths. Women are not inherently Fitna by their very nature. Rather, women, like wealth and children, may become a source of temptation or distraction for men, potentially leading them away from their duties to Allah. This is similar to how the Quran refers to wealth and children as potential Fitna—not that they are inherently bad, but that one's attachment to them could lead to error. In a famous hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Beware! There is a Fitna (trial) in women." This hadith refers to the risk that women, like other worldly attachments, might divert a person from his duties to Allah, especially if one becomes overly preoccupied with desires and pleasures. It is not a judgment on the inherent nature of women, but rather a caution about the possibility of being tested by the love or attraction to them, which could lead to temptation. The Importance of Context: Avoiding Misinterpretation The correct understanding of Fitna in these contexts depends on careful interpretation and the consideration of context. To misinterpret these hadiths is to overlook the fact that Fitna refers not to the object itself (in this case, women), but to the potential for that object to distract or lead a person astray from their higher spiritual obligations. This warning is no different from the caution about wealth or children in the Quran. The key message is to maintain balance and not allow worldly attachments to overshadow one’s duties to Allah. In contemporary discourse, particularly influenced by feminism, some have read these hadiths through a lens that distorts their original meaning. Feminist ideologies, which often challenge traditional gender roles, might see this notion of women as Fitna as inherently oppressive. However, when understood correctly, within the framework of Islamic theology, the reference to women as Fitna is not about their inherent worth or value but rather about the potential challenges that can arise from worldly attachments. The Role of Women in Islam: Respect and Honour Islam elevates the status of women in many ways. In honour of mothers, the Quran states, “And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him with hardship upon hardship...” (31:14). Additionally, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) famously declared, “Paradise lies beneath the feet of mothers.” This statement reflects the high respect that Islam grants to women, particularly mothers. There is no greater respect or honour for women in any religious or secular tradition than the one offered by Islam. The assertion that women are Fitna is not a declaration of their inferiority or exploitation but rather a reminder to men to not become so captivated by worldly attachments that they lose sight of their ultimate goal: to attain Paradise and avoid Hell. The Harmful Influence of Corrupt Ideologies Today, the influence of corrupt ideologies in the name feminism can sometimes distort the meaning of Islamic teachings. Some Muslim women, when confronted with the concept of Fitna, might be influenced by liberal narratives that claim Islam is inherently misogynistic. However, such interpretations often overlook the broader context of Islamic teachings, which emphasize balance, moderation, and the importance of focusing on one’s relationship with Allah above all else. Misunderstanding Fitna as referring to women themselves can lead to unnecessary doubts about Islam's stance on women. Such misunderstandings can weaken one's faith, as they may lead to an erroneous perception that Islam disrespects women. The reality is that Islam offers a comprehensive, balanced, and respectful view of women, ensuring their dignity, protection, and honour. Conclusion The concept of Fitna in Islam is multifaceted, encompassing trials, tribulations, and temptations that can either strengthen or weaken a person's faith. Women, like wealth and children, are not inherently Fitna, but they may become a source of trial if one becomes overly attached to them. The Quran and Hadith warn against becoming so engrossed in worldly attachments that one neglects their duties to Allah. However, this does not diminish the honour Islam grants to women, which is unparalleled in its recognition of their importance, particularly in the context of motherhood. A correct understanding of Fitna, grounded in Islamic jurisprudence and the natural law of Allah, is crucial for dispelling misconceptions and avoiding harmful influences. Muslims should strive to understand the teachings of Islam in their proper context, promoting the true respect and dignity of women, as Islam intended. Through this understanding, the exploitation of women in the name of modern ideologies can be exposed for what it is: a distortion of their true worth in the eyes of Allah. … Kaniz Fatma is a classic Islamic scholar and a regular columnist for New Age Islam. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-ideology/fitna-women-islam-hadith-quran/d/134718 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