Independent Woman in Islam

Devin Halim Wijaya20 November 2025

27 3 minutes read

One of the most well-known catchphrases of our day is independent woman which stands for empowerment, freedom and self-assurance. Yet behind its popularity lies a deeper question worth asking: “In the context of Islam what does independence actually mean? And could it be that Islamic independence carries a far richer and more balanced meaning than simply “doing everything alone”?”

Also read: Worship and Financial Freedom in Islam

Independence Is Based on Principles Not Ego

Islam views independence as standing with principles rather than on ones own. The words of Allah ﷻ in Qur’an:

وَقُلِ اعْمَلُوا فَسَيَرَى اللَّهُ عَمَلَكُمْ وَرَسُولُهُ وَالْمُؤْمِنُونَ
“And say, ‘Do [as you will], for Allah ﷻ will see your deeds, and [so will] His Messenger and the believers.’”
(Surah At-Taubah 9:105)

This verse reminds us that every effort, including a woman’s pursuit of independence, is ultimately an act of responsibility before Allah ﷻ. A truly independent Muslim woman understands that all power and opportunity are gifts from Allah ﷻ rather than rejecting the need for other people. She defines herself not by rebellion but by contribution. She is able to serve her community with clarity sincerity and purpose because of her independence. In Islam, true independence entails anchoring oneself to the proper source of strength rather than detachment.

Also read: Responsibility as Professional Ethic for Muslims

A Full Type of Independence: Spiritual, Moral, Mental, and Financial

In Islamic view, independence is comprehensive and transcends materiality. An independent Muslim woman is morally and intellectually strong. She acts honorably, thinks clearly and upholds her values without losing compassion.

Being independent does not imply rejecting men or severing social bonds. It entails knowing one’s role and purpose with spiritual awareness. In Islam, women are encouraged to be educated productive and active contributors to society yet always within a framework of mas’uliyyah (moral responsibility before Allah ﷻ).

In Islam, independence is defined by it’s direction and purpose rather than freedom in and of itself. When independence is motivated by faith, it fosters serenity and dignity when it is not it can become emptiness masquerading as freedom.

Also read: FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) in Islamic Values

Independent Women without Losing Connections

Independence is frequently portrayed in contemporary narratives as isolation as if being strong entails severing connections with everyone. However, Islam provides a more compassionate balance: independence without alienation. A Muslim woman can become financially independent, pursue education and establish a career without losing her sense of community and family.

Independence is not a wall, it’s a foundation that allows her to collaborate with confidence and give without fear of losing herself. This was exemplified by the Prophet ﷺs collaboration with Sayyidah Khadijah raḍiyallāhu anhā, a wealthy, intelligent and powerful woman who was also incredibly modest and spiritually grounded. Their union was a symbol of harmony based on respect and faith rather than a struggle for dominance.

In Islam, independence reveals a role’s purpose rather than eliminating it. Such independence is about finding balance in strength and meaning in service rather than demonstrating superiority.

Also read: Business and Charity: Turning Wealth into Lasting Rewards

Becoming an Independent Woman with Purpose

In Islam, a woman is considered independent if she maintains a strong connection to Allah ﷻ throughout her work rather than how much she can accomplish on her own. She is strong enough to face challenges yet humble enough to recognize her need for divine guidance. Instead of driving her away from people, muslimah’s independence draws her closer to deep connections based on compassion and decency.

Islam reminds us that balance is a type of wisdom in a world that continuously encourages women to be everything at once. Not everything has to be done alone, but everything can be done with purpose. The strongest woman is not the one who stands apart from everyone. but the one who consistently supports Allah ﷻ in all that she does.

Conclusion

When a woman understands independence not as defiance but as devotion she embodies a grace that bridges this world and the Hereafter. Islam never prevents women from achieving their goals or moving forward. It merely directs that faith and responsibility should light each step forward. And this might be the most authentic example of an independent woman in Islam, not one who stands alone before the world but one who stands firm before Allah ﷻ with a heart at peace.

May Allah ﷻ blesses ummah with strong and independent women who stand firm with iman in their heart.

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Devin Halim Wijaya, B.B.A, M.Sc
Independent Sharia Consultant

Instagram: @devinhalimwijaya

Linkedin: @devinhalim