Men Have a Degree Over Women — The Right of Qiwama and Its Reason
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Level: intermediate
madani-rulings
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وَلِلرِّجَالِ عَلَيۡهِنَّ دَرَجَةٌ
— البقرة 228
Verse: "And men have a degree above them." (2:228)
Occasion (Hasan): A woman reported to the Prophet ﷺ that her husband struck her leaving a mark on her face. The Prophet considered retaliation, then verses about men's leadership were revealed.
"Degree" not "superiority": The degree is one of responsibility and financial support, not human dignity or reward. In Allah's sight both are equal in human honor.
Wisdom: Qiwama is a burden and responsibility, not absolute authority — the qaim is one who provides and protects, not one who tyrannizes.
Source: Al-Wahidi; Al-Qurtubi (3/145); Ibn Kathir (1/620)
Question: What does "the degree" that men have over women mean in this verse?
Answer: A degree of responsibility, financial support, and protection — not superiority in human dignity or reward. Women and men are equal in humanity and recompense.