Iqbal's Feminist Ideology: Women's Empowerment in Poetry & Philosophy and Its Relevance in Contemporary Discourse

Abstract

This study delves into the feminist ideals of Allama Iqbal, a prominent 20th-century poet, philosopher, and visionary, and their resonance in modern feminist conversations. The research aims to explore his vision for women's empowerment and liberation from patriarchal constraints. Through an analysis of Iqbal's poetry, letters, and speeches, the study seeks to illuminate his progressive stance on women's rights and societal roles. It further aims to understand his portrayal of women as dynamic contributors to both domestic and public spheres and to assess the relevance of his notions in contemporary feminist discussions. Qualitative research techniques, including textual and critical discourse analysis, are employed to uncover Iqbal's feminist concepts and their applicability today. The research reveals Iqbal's unwavering focus on women's education, autonomy, and agency, challenging the norms of patriarchy prevalent in his era. His feminist ideology is portrayed as a wellspring of motivation for contemporary feminist discourse, particularly within the Muslim world. This study emphasizes how his ideas can enrich ongoing feminist dialogues while considering the cultural, social, and political contexts unique to the Muslim world. The study draws several key conclusions: Iqbal's feminist ideals remain pertinent and can serve as a source of inspiration for advocating gender equity today. The study emphasizes the need for continued exploration of the intersections of Islam, feminism, and gender equity, especially in the context of the global feminist movement.