Source: This ruling is derived from the Fatwas of the Scholars of Haramain, compiled in the book "500 Questions and Answers for Women", translated by Hafiz Abdullah Saleem.Hadith Reference:
The Prophet ﷺ said:"An-Nisa Shiqaq al-Rijal"
(Women are the counterparts of men.)
(Hasan - Sunan Abi Dawood, Hadith No. 236)Question:
Is this Hadith authentic? What does the phrase "Shaqā'iq ar-Rijāl" mean?Answer:
Authenticity of the HadithYes, this Hadith is authentic (Sahih).
Meaning of "Shaqā'iq ar-Rijāl"The meaning of this phrase is:
"Women are counterparts of men and similar to them, except in matters where natural differences exist between them, or where the Shari'ah has made specific distinctions between men and women."
In all other aspects, the basic principle remains that women are equal to men in rights and responsibilities within the framework of Islamic teachings.
Reference: [Shaykh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah bin Baz (رحمه الله)]