Oppression of women reached its heights in ancient Arabia before Muhammad came to be a prophet. When the Koran was revealed, the practices that oppressed women were abolished, and women were granted rights equal to men's. Contrary to common belief, the Koran is not disrespectful of women. Rather, it elevates their status, protects them, and earns them respect. The Koran gives women equal rights in education, career, marriage, and divorce. It is the misapplication of the Koran that sometimes leads to inequality.