Insights from Dr. Jafari-Movahed, Lecturer at the Women’s Seminary
Finding Balance in a Changing World
Dr. Jafari-Movahed, a lecturer at Iran’s Women’s Seminary, reflects on the complex challenges Muslim women face in today’s fast-changing world. She explains that modern society often pressures believers—especially women—to compromise their religious and moral values.
Among these challenges are restrictions on wearing the hijab in non-Muslim countries and growing misconceptions about Islam. Yet, as she notes, more women in Western societies are discovering the spiritual depth and peace within Islamic teachings. This awakening, she believes, is prompting greater efforts by some leaders and media outlets to distort Islam’s message—particularly regarding women.
Between Modern Independence and Traditional Roles
According to Dr. Jafari-Movahed, a Muslim woman’s path involves both inner and outer growth. Spiritually, she strives for worship, self-discipline, and moral development. Socially, she fulfills vital roles as a wife, mother, and active member of her community.
One of the greatest challenges, she says, is the lack of social systems that help women balance these dual responsibilities. In many societies—both Muslim and non-Muslim—women face heavy pressure because household and parenting duties are not shared equally between men and women.
Family as the Foundation of Identity
She emphasizes that family is the first and strongest space where a woman’s religious and emotional identity is formed. Parents, she says, should nurture faith, ethics, and confidence in their daughters, while husbands must offer emotional understanding and support.
Children, too, play a vital role by respecting and assisting their mothers, preserving family values, and continuing the spiritual legacy of their home.
Media Responsibility and the Image of Muslim Women
Dr. Jafari-Movahed concludes that global media bear a serious responsibility: to portray Muslim women truthfully, beyond stereotypes and political agendas. Only through fairness and understanding, she says, can the dignity and depth of Muslim women’s lives be properly seen.
From: hawzahnews
