أحکام شهادة النساء في الفقه الإسلامي

There has been numerous means of evidence in the Islamic Law, among which, is the testimony. This research paper touches upon the issue of women's testimony. First, the paper clarifies the meaning of the word "testimony" in the Arabic language. It also highlights the legitimate aspects of women's testimony which are based on the Glorious Koran, the Sunna of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him), the sayings and doings by the Companions of the prophet, and usage sanctioned by tradition. The paper tackles the testimony of women in God's restrictions and punishment and in matters where money is involved. Also, their testimony in cases where money is not the issue of consideration. Thus, the paper attempts to expose opinions of experts of Fiqh concerning such issues and their evidence, as well. The research concludes that women's testimony is not lawful in cases of God's restrictions and punishment. Their testimony is permitted in money affairs, though. Also, their testimony in cases where money is not the issue is permitted and lawful such as cases of marriage and divorce.
            The paper sheds light on women's testimony in cases where cannot be present and be involved to be a good judge. In such matters, experts of Fiqh have agreed on considering that women's testimony is lawful, otherwise people's rights won't be kept. Moreover, the paper mentions the requited number of women, or even one single women, needed to give good judgment showing opinions and providing evidence by experts of Fiqh toward the issue. The research concluded that a single women testimony is lawful in cases where men are not involved.
            The research concludes that the testimony of a single women is considered to be a perfect judgment on issues where women cannot be present or involved. Furthermore, the paper reviews cases where women's testimony is considered incomplete and is equal half of the men's. Thus, the research paper argues that this is not true. It is, in fact, a judicial error always repeated by those who are against Islam aiming at undermining its laws and principles.
            The paper, therefore, clarifies and concludes that women's testimony that is supposed to equal only half of the men's testimony is not a matter of underestimation and disrespect for women. On the contrary, the case has been so because women spend most of their time at home to fulfill their tasks and take care of the family. Indeed, women rarely pay visits to the markets where tradesmen sell and buy goods. That's why she may not be able to give her judgment or she may forget because she is not a regular participant is such occasions. Therefore, another testimony from another women is require so as to reach a perfect lawful judgment. Needless to say, that this paper has already mentioned that a single women's testimony is permitted in Islam in cases where men shouldn't be involved. Then, allow me here to ask "How is Islam unfair to women after all?"