Question:-
Is it permissible for women to join army?
Answer:-
Referring to women venturing outdoors the Quraan categorically states, “Remain in your homes and (when it is absolutely necessary to leave your homes, leave properly clothed) and do not make a display of yourselves as was the practice of (women during) the former period of ignorance.” [Surah Ahzaab Verse 33]
It is clearly understood from the above verse that women are not permitted to leave their homes unnecessarily. It is not the responsibility of women to earn their livelihood and provide for their families, rather it is the duty of the husband to provide for his wife, or the duty of the father to provide for his children etc. In short, a woman is not even permitted to leave her home to earn her livelihood under normal circumstances when their spouses and guardians are present.
The only time that a woman may leave the confines of her home is when there aren’t any male family members (Mahaarim) to take care of her basic needs, and she is therefore compelled to go out and purchase her basic needs and necessities herself, or she is in need of medical treatment and needs to reach a doctor etc. In such instances she should ensure that she adorns herself with the correct attire (when leaving her home) as prescribed in Shariah.
Joining the army is definitely not considered as a need and necessity which permits women to leave their homes. It has always been the men that participated in Jihaad and fought against the enemy, not the women. There were certain occasions where majority of the Sahaaba went out in the path of Allah Taála and Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam left behind certain Sahaabah to safeguard and protect the women. This, again, is an indication that women in the era of Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam never participated in Jihaad (and thereby fought against the enemy) but rather remained at home.
Also, by participating in the army, she will have to interact and engage in training exercises with male soldiers. She will have to undertake journeys with them in order to defend her country and will be required to abide by a particular code of dressing whereby her body shape is revealed and her hair exposed, all of which is against the grain and teachings of Shariah and impermissible. The food provided to soldiers may also be questionable.
In conclusion, it is not permissible for Muslim women to participate and join the army from a Shari’ee perspective,
ALLAH TA’ALA KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai
Date: 13 Jumadal Ukhra 1443 / 16 January 2022
