Page 155 - Mary: An Exemplary Muslim Woman

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n the Qur'an, Allah informs us how belief
benefits a woman:

Do not marry women who associate [others
with Allah] until they believe. A slave girl
who is one of the believers is better for you
than a woman who associates [others with
Allah], even though she may attract you. And
do not marry men who associate [others with
Allah] until they believe. A slave who is one of the be-
lievers is better for you than a man who associates [oth-
ers with Allah], even though he may attract you. Such
people call you to the Fire, whereas Allah calls you, with
His permission, to the Garden and forgiveness. He makes
His Signs clear to people so that, hopefully, they will pay
heed. (Surat al-Baqara: 221)
Allah reveals that belief, fear and respect of Allah,
and Islamic morality are the foremost causes of the believ-
ers' strength of character and virtue. Belief makes all of a
person's qualities meaningful. In addition, the Qur'an's
morality helps women, and everyone else, to acquire a
most strong, solid, and virtuous character. As Allah re-

vealed in the verse, "No indeed! We have given them that