12. Respecting Natural Differences

Abu Huraira narrates that the Prophet of Islam (SAW) said: “Treat women with kindness, for they were created from a rib, and the most curved part of the rib is the upper section. If you attempt to straighten it, you may break it; but if left as it is, it will remain naturally curved. Therefore, treat women with understanding and compassion.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No.  3331)

The point made in this hadith is not about the manner in which the first woman, Eve, was created. Rather, it refers to a general tendency in women’s temperament. Just as a rib is naturally curved, this curvature is not a flaw but a design that allows it to fulfill its intended function. If the rib is forcibly straightened through surgery, it can no longer perform its proper role in the body.

In another narration, the phrase “the woman is like the rib” is used. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 5184) Similarly, another narration states: “The woman’s example is like the rib.” (Sahih Ibn Hibban, Hadith No. 4180)

This metaphor illustrates one of the inherent qualities of women—their emotional nature. Compared with men, women have been given a somewhat more emotional temperament so that they can form deep emotional bonds with people and things, and thereby fulfil their specific responsibilities more effectively. One result of this temperament is the deep emotional bond a mother develops with her children. Without this bond, she would not be able to fulfil her responsibilities toward them with the same degree of care and devotion.