Facing Pressures, Today's Women Need of Role Models Like Hazrat Zahra: Lecturer

IQNA – A university lecturer says women, today, are facing numerous pressures and need to draw inspiration from role models like Hazrat Zahra (SA).

"Today’s woman faces numerous conflicts and pressures. On the one hand, she strives to be a model individual—a kind of superwoman who is active in society and professionally accomplished. On the other, she fulfills traditional roles at home as a mother, wife, or daughter, while playing a critical part in family decision-making and financial management," Dr. Zeinab Baqiat Esfahani, a lecturer at Karaj Branch of Azad University, told IQNA. 

According to Esfahani, this dual responsibility often leaves women caught between traditional expectations and modern demands. "Women today are still expected to uphold traditional roles while simultaneously embracing modern ones," she explained.

"This disconnection has distanced them from a values-driven, duty-oriented, and God-centered life akin to that of Hazrat Zahra (SA)." 

Esfahani also pointed to a shift in women’s sources of inspiration, observing a growing influence of celebrities over religious figures.

"The rapid pace of modern life and the desire to keep up with progress have led many women to follow celebrities rather than religious role models," she said. "Celebrities primarily seek visibility and followers, often prioritizing financial gain. Naturally, this creates a gap between their lifestyle and the ideal standards." 

She argued that misunderstandings of religious role models also contribute to this shift. "The primary barrier to adopting these role models is a lack of proper understanding. Analyzing the life of Hazrat Zahra (SA) in the context of modern living is challenging, and for some, even unbelievable," Esfahani noted. 

Esfahani emphasized the need to present Islamic role models in a way that resonates with contemporary society.

"Scholars and historians must make the teachings and lifestyle of Hazrat Zahra (SA) relatable to today’s women, especially the younger generation," she said.

"Her life offers lessons not only for women but for men as well, as she stood alongside Imam Ali (AS) in worship, knowledge, and productivity," added the lecturer. 

She highlighted practical aspects of Hazrat Zahra’s (SA) life that modern families could emulate. "Effective communication within families, meaningful interactions with children and spouses, and constructive relationships with neighbors and community members are all lessons we can draw from her life," she said. 

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