Any obligation and commandment in Islam first of all...

Any obligation and commandment in Islam first of all, is addressed to His Holiness Ali (P) and Her Eminence Fatimah (P). In some instances, the obligations assigned to them may be more burdensome than that assigned to other people.

It was so for the Holy Prophet (P) when the verse was revealed: «من الليل فتهجد نافلة لك» "At night, wake up and pray during it as an extra bonus for yourself." The Holy Prophet (P) was the first one who must do the very Divine Commandment for he is considered an example and role model. In view of that, His Holiness Ali (P) describing infallibility as one of his own attributes states: انكم لا تقدرون علي ذلك ولكن اعينوني بورع “You can never be like me, however, assist me through piety”.

Some claim that they are Imams and have specific knowledge and others state that the concept of a woman as presented in Imam Ali’s remarks is too idealistic and it may be unachievable in real life however, it must be taken into consideration that they are witnesses of God, they are examples and proofs who will testify in the Hereafter.

Unfortunately, in discussing woman’s personality it is said that woman should be like this and like that, she should not disobey and so on failing to see the other side of the coin. There are some people who relate to obligations of the spouse according to their own interests, rationalizing the rules of Islam to their own advantage. The management inside the family and responsible supervision over the internal affairs of the family is another clear and distinct role of a Muslim woman.

The Chief of the Faithful, Ali (P), quoting from the Holy Prophet (P) states: "One of the points of كلكم راع و كلكم مسئول عن رعيته “All of you should be a shepherd towards your flock.” Refers to the woman’s role and responsibility initiated inside the family.

His Holiness states in this regard: والمراة راعية علي بيت زوجها و هي مسئوله “The woman is the supervisor and the one responsible inside the house, in the family and in relation with her husband.” Therefore, the supervision over the sphere of the family assigned to the spouse (wife) is considered one of the clear and obvious proofs of general supervision. Through this supervision, tensions inside the family will fade away and the ground for a sound life will be paved as well.

The ideal personality for a Muslim woman from Imam Ali’s (P) point of view is different from the concept of a woman's personality of a woman at present.