Entrepreneurship means starting a business or organisation. It involves finding opportunities in the market, gathering the resources needed, and using them to take advantage of these opportunities for long-term benefits. An entrepreneur creates a business plan, gets the required people and resources, and takes full responsibility for whether the business succeeds or fails. Entrepreneurs play an important role in a country’s economic growth.
Islam is a complete way of life, where religion and business are connected. Islam has its own approach to entrepreneurship, guided by principles from the Qur’ān and Hadith, to ensure business is done ethically and effectively.
Entrepreneurship is an important part of Islamic economics. It focuses on seeking opportunities even with limited resources. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions are great examples of this entrepreneurial spirit. Islam encourages all Muslims to be creative, active, and enterprising.
Hazrat Khadijah, the first wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, stands as the most renowned example of a successful Muslim businesswoman in Islamic history. A wealthy and influential merchant, she managed extensive trade caravans across Arabia. Her business was built on honesty, fair dealings, and excellent negotiation skills.
When Prophet Muhammad ﷺbegan working for her as a trader, his integrity, diligence, and transparency in transactions deeply impressed her. She recognised his exceptional capabilities and proposed marriage, establishing a partnership that became a cornerstone of Islamic history. Khadijah supported Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emotionally, spiritually, and financially, particularly during the early days of Islam.
This example highlights that Islam not only permits but also celebrates women’s involvement in business, provided they adhere to ethical and Islamic guidelines.
Notable Women in Islamic History
Aisha bint Talha: Known for her entrepreneurial skills, Aisha bint Talha was a prominent figure in early Islamic society. She managed her wealth independently and contributed generously to social causes.
Zainab bint Jahsh: Another example of a financially independent Muslim woman, Zainab bint Jahsh, a wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, excelled in handicrafts and tailoring. She earned her income through her skills and spent much of it in charity, embodying the Islamic value of giving.
Shifa bint Abdullah: A companion of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, she was a skilled businesswoman and an expert in market regulations. She was even appointed by Caliph Umar to oversee trade in Madinah, a position of significant authority.
Islamic Teachings on Women and Business
Islam promotes women’s economic independence and empowerment while emphasising ethical practices. The Quran acknowledges the right of both men and women to earn and possesswealth:
“For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of His bounty. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing of all things.” (Surah An- Nisa, 4:32)
Additionally, Islamic teachings encourage fairness and justiceintrade: “O you who have believed, do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:29)
The examples of Muslim women entrepreneurs in Islamic history demonstrate that commerce is an honourable pursuit for women, as long as it adheres to the principles of modesty, fairness, and social responsibility. These examples inspire contemporary Muslim women to pursue entrepreneurship, contribute to society, and achieve financial independence while remaining true to their faith.
As Islam lays down a framework for ethical business, it remains a source of empowerment for women, encouraging them to excel while balancing family, spirituality, and social responsibilities.
In the contemporary world, Muslim women are increasingly making strides in business and entrepreneurship, contributing significantly to economic growth and social development. While they draw inspiration from Islamic history, where women like Hazrat Khadijah excelled in trade, modern Muslim women face unique challenges and opportunities in navigating the business world.
Muslim Women Entrepreneurs: Global and National Perspectives
Globally, Muslim-majority countries are witnessing a rise in women entrepreneurs. According to a 2022 report by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, women in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Türkiye are leveraging their skills to establish successful enterprises in diverse industries. These businesses not only generate employment but also challenge stereotypes about women’s roles in society.
In India, where Muslim women comprise approximately 10% of the population, entrepreneurship is gaining traction. However, the numbers remain modest, with only about 2% of women entrepreneurs coming from the Muslim community, according to a 2023 Ministry of Minority Affairs report. This gap underscores the need for targeted interventions to support and empower Muslim women entrepreneurs.
Despite the inspiring legacy of successful Muslim women entrepreneurs, such as Hazrat Khadijah, many Muslim women in India are reluctant to venture into business. This reluctance stems not from a lack of ambition or capability but from societal and familial constraints that hinder their entrepreneurial potential.
Traditional family dynamics and societal norms remain significant obstacles for Muslim women aspiring to entrepreneurship in India. A 2023 report by the Ministry of Minority Affairs reveals that societal expectations and family structures often discourage women, especially in rural and conservativehouseholds, from pursuing their entrepreneurial ambitions. Male family members, such as husbands and fathers, frequently prioritise domestic responsibilities over career aspirations, restricting women’s participation in economic activities. This entrenched mindset prevents many women from exploring their potential and limits their ability to contribute to the household income or achieve financial independence.
Research published in the Journal of Women’s Entrepreneurship in Developing Countries (2022) found that over 60% of Muslim women entrepreneurs in India face resistance from family members when initiating or expanding their businesses. This resistance is deeply rooted in patriarchal beliefs that men should be the primary breadwinners. Families often express concerns about modesty, fearing that business activities might compromise a woman’s adherence to cultural and religious expectations. Additionally, a lack of awareness about the economic and personal benefits of women’s entrepreneurship contributes to this resistance, with many families failing to recognise the transformative potential of empowering women through business.
Beyond the family, societal norms create an environment that is often unwelcoming to Muslim women entrepreneurs. In conservative communities, limited mobility poses a significant challenge. Women are frequently discouraged from traveling independently, which restricts their ability to network, access markets, or attend training programmes essential for business growth. This lack of mobility is compounded by the scarcity of visible role models, making it difficult for aspiring entrepreneurs to find inspiration or guidance.
Furthermore, societal discrimination adds another layer of difficulty. A 2021 study by the Indian Journal of Development Research highlighted that Muslim women often face biases when seeking financial assistance or business partnerships. This discrimination not only undermines their confidence but also limits their access to resources and opportunities.
These barriers both familial and societal underscore the need for systemic change. While government programmes and initiatives aim to empower women, they must address the unique challenges faced by Muslim women in India, fostering an environment that encourages their entrepreneurial aspirations and contributions.
[The writer is a PhD Research Scholar, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi]