Scholar Highlights Fatimi Model of Dignity, Responsibility for Muslim Women
Zohreh Akhavan-Moqaddam, a professor at the University of Quranic Sciences, made the remarks on Sunday at a seminar titled “The Manifestation of Women’s Dignity in the Fāṭimī Tradition,” held by the Bayt al-Ghadir Institute.
The event was organized ahead of celebrations marking the birth anniversary of Lady Fatima (SA), Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) daughter, who is revered by Muslims for her piety, compassion, and moral leadership.
Akhavan-Moqaddam explained that the Quran distinguishes between two types of human dignity: innate and acquired.
She described intrinsic dignity as the honor God has placed in every human being, citing the Quranic expression “We breathed into him of My spirit.”
She added that humans are entrusted with khilāfah (stewardship), which becomes meaningful when individuals cultivate noble traits.
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She then outlined paths to acquired dignity, noting that God has granted humans “the blessings of intellect, free will and life,” and that each gift carries responsibility. She stressed accountability not only toward God and oneself, but also toward other people and even the natural world.
Regarding the relationship between individual and society, she said both shape one another. A dignified individual, she noted, contributes to a principled community, while social ethics help nurture personal growth.
A significant portion of her talk focused on modesty and hijab. She said the logic of modesty is rooted in protecting what is precious.
“God has given women greater beauty and He wants this beauty to remain safeguarded,” she stated. She emphasized that promoting modesty requires cultural work.
While acknowledging that hijab brings certain limitations, she argued that such limits also “provide protection,” comparing them to other religious practices like fasting and prayer.
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Turning to the Fatimi model, she said Lady Fatima (SA) demonstrated excellence both at home and in society, rejecting extremes of isolation or unrestrained exposure. She highlighted Lady Fatima’s balanced roles as a worshipper, spouse, mother and community member.
She called on Muslim women to embrace a holistic understanding of dignity—one grounded in devotion, fairness in family roles, compassion for neighbors, and care for the vulnerable.
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