Abstract
<jats:p>Abstract: In the journal "Varlig," particularly in the works of its editor-in-chief and one of its key authors, Javad Heyat, the theme of women is examined from various perspectives. He 2 both explains the value Islam gives to women and criticizes how old traditions restrict women’s rights. By translating the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad, “Seeking knowledge is a religious obligation upon every Muslim man and woman,” Javad Heyat emphasizes the great importance of women’s education in Islam. This approach shows the value he places on women’s education. Citing the 13th verse of the Quran’s Surah Al-Hujurat, he states that people were created from a male and a female, and the most honored of them in the sight of God is the most righteous. This approach reinforces the idea of equality between the sexes. While examining the “Book of Dede Korkut,” Javad Heyat highlights the moral, disciplined, and resilient characteristics of Oghuz women. This shows that women are not just weak beings occupied with household chores, but active and respected members of society. For example, the love for mothers and women is specially emphasized in the epics. Javad Heyat notes that the poet Mirza Şefi Vazıh advocated for women’s freedom by saying, “Throw off your chador.” This indicates his support for women being more active in social life. Furthermore, he approves of the “Molla Nasraddin” magazine’s criticism of ignorant religious figures. While writing about the story “Asli and Karam,” Javad Heyat condemns the Black Priest’s refusal to give his daughter to the young Muslim Turk she loves, associating it with old religious traditions and fanaticism. This example shows that Javad Heyat was against religious radicalism that restricts love and human relationships. He uses works such as “Türk Kızı” (The Turkish Girl), “Bahadir and Sona,” and “Asli and Karam” as examples, calling for brotherhood and friendship among peoples. By emphasizing the importance of staging Uzeyir Hajibeyli’s works in Tabriz and other Iranian cities, he highlights that these works underscore women’s rights and social roles. Javad Heyat approaches the woman question in a comprehensive manner. On one hand, he emphasizes the value given to women by Islam and ancient Turkish culture, while on the other, he condemns the violation of women’s rights due to fanaticism and ignorance. He stresses the role of both strong and enlightened women in Azerbaijani history and the men who supported their activities. At the same time, he exposes political propaganda conducted in the name of women’s freedom, conveying the true essence of this issue to his readers. This approach shows that women’s rights are possible not only through education but also through respect for national and spiritual values, and it emphasizes the importance of women’s social, scientific, and spiritual development. In general, it can be said that Javad Heyat’s views on women are scientific, enlightening, and critical in nature.</jats:p>