When the Qur'an was revealed to a 7th-century, macho Arabian tribal society, women saw its message as a liberation. Marriage without consent, female infanticide, forced prostitution were all banned. In his actions, the Prophet Muhammad demonstrated that women were valued and equal members of the community. He accepted and encouraged their participation in politics (women individually took the oath of allegiance), ritual life (women prayed in the mosque with no barriers) and community life (he once refused a dinner invitation because the man did not want the Prophet to bring his wife). It is these examples, among others, that Muslim women have looked to throughout the generations to reject patriarchal customs disguised as "religion."

Many scholars have argued that it is also important to understand the limitations the social and political context of 7th century Arabic placed upon the extent of change that could be effected and that these limitations are also reflected in the Qur'an and the Prophet Muhammad's example.

In the short, 23-year period of revelation, there was only so much that could be done. That is why it is important to distingish fundamental principles and values in the Qur'an and the Prophet's message from particular rulings that were necessary for that time. Only by making this distinction, can the message of the dignity of all humanity be maintained and uplifted.