Culture vs. Religion Part 2

     So, as I was saying, there is usually a confusion between my culture and religion. People tend to blame my religion for misogynistic when really it's my culture that nurtures such views. And of course, it's not every person in my culture that holds such views; there are exceptions to every case, thankfully my parents being one exception.
     Back to misogynistic views. It's interesting that people confuse the two in the first place. My culture degrades women by telling them their place is at home, taking care of children and tending to the kitchen.
     My religion, however, does not advocate or support this in the least. The Qu'ran says, "O, you who believe! You are forbidden to inherit women against their will. Nor should you treat them with harshness, that you may take away part of the dowry you have given...On the contrary live with them on a footing of kindness and equity." [Noble Quran 4:19]
     I think this is a pretty clear statement. I mean, like I said in my first post, I don't feel oppressed because of my religion. Sometimes, I feel irritated by the way I'm treated by other family members, because I know their influence and their ideals stem from my culture.
     It is true that my culture and religion are intertwined in many aspects and my culture is most definitely affected by my religion, but many people and leaders have tweaked those rules so they fit their lifestyle.
     The really sad part is the fact that many women living in these countries that hold these beliefs (not just India or Pakistan) have started to believe in these wrong ideals as well. They don't see themselves as worthy or capable of having a paid job or continuing their education past secondary school; instead, they too believe it's important for them to get married young and take care of the household.
     Having said that, I would like to stress that I find no fault in the women and men that want to stay home and raise a family. In my opinion, it is a job harder than any other, it is a job that is not thoroughly recognized,  it is a job that requires patience and kindness beyond measure. I applaud those parents because they sacrifice more than we can ever imagine and their jobs are 24/7...they literally never get a break.
     I guess what I'm trying to say is as long as the women know their worth and know that they can do anything they want to, they can do whatever they want! Pretty simple, yes? It's important for people to know what they can do, and this is a big part of Islam: reaching your full potential and doing your best to be the best you can be.