Conversation around the position of women in our society are highly imperative. In light of this, Armeena Khan took to Twitter to ask a thought-provoking question.
She questioned her followers about their thoughts on a “good woman.”
Do you think a working woman is a good woman or do you think her place is in the kitchen? (I’m conducting a personal research into something hence the odd question). Please don’t fight, offer your opinions politely.
— Armeena Khan (@ArmeenaRK) September 12, 2018
The question actually focuses on what people think contributes to the qualities of a “good woman”? Is she good if she is a working lady or does being docile give her that credit?
Since the question was meant for research purposes, Pakistanis did not hold back AT ALL in expressing their thoughts on the matter.
A working woman who stays within Islamic boundaries is a good woman for her to manage home & work is commendable. The prophet saw used to do his own chores and help his wives. So a good man is 1 who appreciates and respects his wife. She is the queen of the house not a slave.
— Sana سناء🌷 (@Sana_rida92) September 12, 2018
And hence, the contorted ideas regarding the defining factor which makes a woman “good” were finally brought to the surface.
First priority must be her home and her children (if u call that “kitchen” then kitchen it is). But in case of need she can go outside and work appropriately and which is suitable to her nature like Teaching or medical etc.
This is what Islam tells us.— Amlish Ghaffar (@amlishG) September 12, 2018
It is sad to see that even in times as progressive as today, people still believe that a woman doing choolha chowki is the personification of what a woman needs to be.
Kitchen
— Nadia khan (@nadiakhan233) September 12, 2018
Surprisingly, people actually had other views.
We all are equal as a human being, and we shouldn’t judge if they work or not, I think working woman is mentally strong and powerful because she knows how to fight and survive. (Fight with misogynists)
— Furqan Shayk (@FurqanShayk) September 13, 2018
Men and women, alike, were of the opinion that women can play both roles effectively and can be equally good in both. People emphasized the fact that be it a working lady or a housewife, a woman who can maintain her balance in every aspect of her life is good.
Some stated that values and morals are the determining factors.
Whether you’re working or you’re a housewife, that doesn’t define whether you’re a good woman. A good woman is someone who has good values, stands by them, has a clean heart and a nice personality.
— I Love Doughnuts ❤️ (@MsAmnaShahid) September 12, 2018
Some answers indicated that perhaps, some people are questioning the misogynistic mindset that exists within our society.
I don’t think a woman’s career or her choice to be at home can define her as being “good”. I do believe every woman should have the right to choose what she wants to do. If she wants to work, she should be given the freedom to do so. If she’d rather be at home than so be it.
— Nayaab Khan (@nayaabkay) September 14, 2018
People also didn’t hold back their resentment for culturally defined gender roles.
A woman worth should not be identified by either they are working women or they spend their time in kitchen. That’s a part of their life, not their whole existence. A woman is so much more than these two identities. I believe, gender roles are toxic, hence, the limitation.
— Ayesha (@_Woke_AF) September 12, 2018
Just a reminder Khadeja (RA) the prophets (SAW)wife was a businesswomen/trader so that’s also what Islam tells us. Women aren’t limited to kitchen only. But that being said nothing is wrong with them choosing kitchen
— Arfa Kodwavi (@arfakodwavi) September 13, 2018
However, the crux of the debate initiated by Armeena Khan is best encapsulated in this tweet:
I don’t think anyone has the right to object their views of right and wrong on anyone, including women. It is her choice whether she wants to work or stay at home, whichever he chooses does not make her “good” or “bad”
— Sameen Jafri (@OhSnapItsSameen) September 13, 2018
I believe the question was meant to help people understand and realize the fact there is no hard and fast rule to define what makes a good woman. A woman’s worth is not defined by her career choices or marital status. At the end of it all, none of us have the right to judge someone else, so let us try to practice that more. Let people be how they are and do not try to judge them.
On that note, what makes a person “good” in your opinion? Do you think Armeena Khan asked the right question? Could it have been amended? Share your thoughts on the matter.
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