S(caps)on preference remains a deeply ingrained issue in many South Asian countries, including Bangladesh and India, despite significant societal advancements. This cultural phenomenon persists across educational and socioeconomic backgrounds, with pregnant women often facing immense pressure to bear male children. Traditional practices, such as seeking blessings from religious figures like Pirs, Fakirs, or Darveshes, are still common. Families without sons frequently face social stigma, highlighting the pervasive nature of this gender bias.
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Societal Impact and Harmful Practices
The societal emphasis on male offspring is so strong that it often overshadows other aspects of family life. Parents, particularly in traditional settings, view sons as their ultimate support and legacy. The birth of a daughter is often met with misplaced sympathy, even in educated circles, subjecting parents to undue mental stress and social pressure. This preference for male children has led to alarming practices, including gender-selective abortions in some cases, prompting legal restrictions on gender reveal tests in many regions.
Historical and Cultural Beliefs
The roots of this preference lie in deep-seated beliefs about lineage continuation and family power dynamics. Sons are viewed as protectors of family legacy and bearers of familial strength. Families without male heirs are often considered unfortunate, a notion that harks back to historical ignorance. The Quran addresses this discriminatory attitude, condemning the practice of devaluing female children in strong terms. In the Holy Quran, Allah says about this practice:
“And when one of them is informed of [the birth of] a female, his face becomes dark, and he suppresses grief. He hides himself from the people because of the ill of which he has been informed. Should he keep it in humiliation or bury it in the ground? Unquestionably, evil is what they decide.”[ref 1]
The Concept of 'Avatar' in Arab Culture
Historically, the concept of 'Avatar' in Arab culture referred to those without offspring, particularly male heirs. This term carried negative connotations, implying a lack of legacy or power. Even Prophet Muhammad (ï·º) faced such criticism from his opponents in Mecca. However, Islamic teachings challenge these notions, emphasizing the equal value of all human life regardless of gender.
Islamic Perspective: The Hadith of Anas ibn Malik
The Hadith of Anas ibn Malik (ra) about the revelation of Surah Al-Kawthar provides a powerful counternarrative to these discriminatory practices. It illustrates that divine favor is not contingent on worldly measures of success or legacy. The promise of 'Kausar' (abundance) to the Prophet (ï·º) serves as a reminder that true value lies in faith and righteous deeds, not in gender-based preferences.
Anas ibn Malik (ra) described that once we were present at the gathering of Prophet Muhammad (ï·º). Suddenly he felt unconsciousness over him. Then he smiled and raised his head. We asked him, “O Messenger of Allah! What is the reason for your smile?” He said, “Just now a Surah has passed over me.” He recited it, “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.” Then he said, “I have been given ‘Kausar’ by my Lord. So you offer Salah for your Lord and sacrifice animals.” Those who are envious of you their lineage will be cut off. Then he said, “Do you know what ‘Kausar’ is?” We said, “Allah and His Messenger know best.” He said, “It is a river in Paradise. My great Lord has promised me that among its countless glasses, there will be one glass for each member of my Ummah. One person will be taken from there quickly.” Then I will say, “Lord! He was one of my Ummah’s people.” Then I will be told, “Don’t you know what he did after your death?” (Muslim, Hadith: 780)
Embracing Divine Wisdom and Equality
This Islamic perspective offers a profound message: human judgments and societal pressures are transient, while divine wisdom is eternal. It encourages believers to trust in Allah's plan and recognize the temporary nature of worldly status and possessions. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of valuing all children equally, regardless of gender, and refraining from pride or criticism based on such superficial factors. This approach aligns with the broader Islamic teachings of equality and the inherent dignity of all human beings.
