In Islam today there is a controversial issue whether the woman can be Imam in a congregation prayer for both men and women. It has been seen today there are several women who stand as Imam and lead the prayer in a mixed congregation behind her without any gender separation imposed on them. The women who took the responsibility to become Imam claimed that there is an unclear point from specific traditions: the Hadith or more important the Qur’an itself does not deal with the issue directly.
However, there is clear evidence in the Qur’an that only men are to lead the congregation prayers unless there is none present to serve as Imam then only it is the responsibility of the woman to relieve the duty.
S7:52 For We had certainly sent unto them a Book, based on knowledge, which We explained in detail, a guide and a mercy to all who believe.
All the evidence in the Qur’an showed it is the man to lead the prayer. The examples in the verse below the Arabic “kunta” is singular masculine in gender giving the example of a man who leads the congregation prayer
S4:102 When thou (kunta) art with them, and stand to lead them in prayer, let one party of them stand up (in prayer) with thee, taking their arms with them: When they finish their prostrations, let them take their position in the rear……
This is evidence and an example to show that a man is to lead the prayer. Further in the Qur’an it is mentioned man is to lead the prayers not only at the mosque but also in any place of worship whether in the house or anywhere and anytime because it is natural that men can accommodate the extra time to assume the duty to become Imam in all the daily obligatory prayers compared to a woman.
It is mentioned in the Qur’an there are men who would spend the time to assume the responsibility and take it as their duties.
S24:36-37 In houses, which Allah hath permitted to be raised to honour; for the celebration, in them, of His name: In them is He glorified in the mornings and in the evenings. By men whom neither traffic nor merchandise can divert from the Remembrance of Allah, nor from regular Prayer, nor from the practice of regular Charity: Their only fear is for the Day when hearts and eyes will be transformed.
In comparison to women, their time is fully dedicated to managing the daily family affairs being the responsibility of the wife and mother. The key duties and responsibilities that a housewife may have will be meal preparation includes grocery shopping, recipe planning, and managing food inventory to minimize waste. Regular cleaning, dusting, mopping, and tidying up living spaces to maintain hygiene and order. Supervising, feeding, and tending to the needs of children, as well as supporting their education and extracurricular activities. Washing, drying, folding, and ironing clothes, as well as managing seasonal storage. Budgeting, paying bills, and managing household expenses to ensure financial stability.
These responsibilities are essential for maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming home environment, and ensuring the well-being of every family member. Without a well-structured daily routine the housewives will not manage their time effectively, it will increase stress, and reduce productivity. They have to spend a lot of effort in performing all these responsibilities which demand a substantial amount of time.
Furthermore, there is the natural monthly disruption she has to take care of which might be a time of discomfort for her. So, for them to take the duty of Imam in the mosque, it is not only enforcing extra duty and time against them but also, they might neglect their own personal service to their families.
The other is handicap during pregnancy. Many women face long-term health problems after childbirth, low back pain and anxiety and can affect their quality of life. Pregnancy and childbirth can present various challenges and difficulties. Common issues include morning sickness, gestational diabetes, and complications during labour and delivery. These can range from minor inconveniences to serious complications that may require medical attention. With these situations it is impossible for women to serve as Imam is a congregation.
Pondering with Saifuddin's index 