The Role of Women in Studying Islamic Jurisprudence

Question:
Honorable Shaykh, does a woman have a role in studying Islamic jurisprudence? And were there female jurists and scholars in the history of the Muslims?

Answer:
In a manner suitable for her, and that she needs for the affairs of her religion. And yes, among the female Companions there were female jurists, such as the Mother of the Believers, Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), for she was the most learned woman among the women, and the senior male Companions would refer to her and ask her about matters of the religion, because she was a jurist (may Allah be pleased with her). Likewise, Umm Salama was a jurist. Also, among the female Tabi'un there were female jurists and hadith scholars. If you read the history of scholars and the biographies of scholars, you will find among them female jurists and scholars. Therefore, a woman studying the affairs of her religion is a required matter, but on the condition that this is done with adherence to proper conduct, modesty, hijab, and avoiding fitnah (trial, discord or temptation). There is no harm in this if these guidelines and conditions are met. However, if she leaves her house and mixes with men and claims that she is studying jurisprudence and learning, that is not permissible, because the harm in this is greater than the benefit, and preventing harm takes precedence over seeking benefit. If it results in her mixing with men, exposing herself to fitnah, and not observing hijab, then it is not permissible. But if she studies her religion, attends the mosque with hijab, listens to the lessons, and benefits...