There is a common belief that Islam gives a higher status to men in comparison to women. This is a misconception in the truest sense of the word.

Contrary to the common misconception that Islam holds men superior to women, Islam actually gives equal status to women as that of men. The Quran says: “You are members, one of another.” (3:195)

This means that there is no difference between the two as regards status, rights, and blessings both in this world and in the Hereafter.

The following Hadith gives an apt description of the role of women: “Men and women are two equal halves of a single unit.” (Al Tirmizi)

We see that both the sacred scriptures of Islam make it clear that neither sex is inferior or superior to the other. However, studies in biology and psychology show that the sexes are different in nature, each being designed for a different purpose. So, the Islamic maxim runs: “Equal in respect, but different in role.”

Each being equal has a different sphere of action. That is, in making their contribution to social activity, the men undertake whatever is harder, while the women deal with whatever is lighter.

Source: The True Face of Islam