The faith of women
In one saying, the Messenger (PBUH) said that women are less than men in mind, the faith – din – and fortune. However, he has explained this saying in a manner that is consistent with the texts cited concerning the rights, dignity and honour of women. Can you explain this please?
The hadith related is from Imam Ali (A.S) in Nahjul Balaghah, Sermon 80, which he delivered immediately after the Battle of the Camel in the year 36 AH. This had been planned, incited and led by Ayesha, wife of the Prophet (PBUH). In it, 13,000 Muslims followers of Ayesha and 5,000 Muslim citizens loyal to the Khalif and Islamic state lost their lives.
By being not perfect in mind, the hadith refers to women being more likely to be affected by emotions, precisely what happened in that battle.
By being not perfect in din the hadith refers to the fact that women are obliged to stop praying and fasting during their monthly periods.
By being not perfect in fortune, the hadith refers to the share males inherit which is twice the share allocated for women.
To understand them fully, we have to read all ahadith in context of their time and conditions.