Women in Islam

(part 1 of 3) The Islamic veil or hijab refers to the loose-fitting, plain and opaque outer garments which cover a Muslim woman’s body. While basically identical to the clothing depicted in traditional Christian representations of Mary (peace be upon her and her son), and every nun who has sought to emulate her since, the … Read more

(part 1 of 2): The Various Rights Islam Gives to Women Today people think that women are liberated in the West and that the Women’s liberation movement began in the 20th century. Actually, the women’s liberation movement was not begun by women, but was revealed by God to a man in the seventh century by … Read more

Western Attitude towards Women Modern western attitude towards the female gender is a reaction to a long history of subjugation, rooted mainly in Judeo-Christian traditions. Perhaps, more accurately, one can assert that modern attitudes arose in post-reformation philosophies – ideas that appeared during the ‘era of enlightenment’. In contrast to this is the Islamic world … Read more

(part 1 of 2): The History of Female Genital Cutting (FGC) and its Types A common phenomenon which has been regretfully associated almost exclusively with Islam is the various forms of female genital cutting, or FGC[1]. Although many of those who are involved in this act attribute to the religion of Islam, the majority of … Read more

Probablemente no encajo dentro de la noción preconcebida de una “rebelde”. No tengo tatuajes visibles ni un piercing y no poseo una chaqueta de cuero. De hecho, cuando la mayoría de la gente me mira, su primer pensamiento está usualmente relacionado con la idea de “mujer oprimida”. Los valientes individuos que se han armado de … Read more

On my wall, I have a picture of a Muslim woman shrouded in a burka[1]. Beside it is a picture of an American beauty contestant, wearing nothing but a bikini. One woman is totally hidden from the public; the other is totally exposed. These two extremes say a great deal about the clash of so-called … Read more

A book, Perfect Madness by Judith Warner, published by Riverhead Books, tells us that during her research, Warner discovered that: “Seventy percent of American moms say they find motherhood today ‘incredibly stressful.’” “Thirty percent of mothers of young children reportedly suffer from depression.” In the lands where all that glitters is somehow perceived to be … Read more

For centuries, Muslim women in all corners of the world have been aware of the liberation that is achieved by adhering to the concept of hijab. Current world events have once again brought the issue of women’s liberation in Islam to the forefront of people’s minds.   Can a Woman Who Adheres to Hijab Be … Read more

(part 1 of 2) Introduction The issue of gender equity is important, relevant, and current. Debates and writings on the subject are increasing and are diverse in their perspectives. The Islamic perspective on the issue is the least understood and most misrepresented by non-Muslims and some Muslims as well. This article is intended to provide … Read more

In recent years, a small piece of cloth has managed to cause quite a stir. The scarf or hijab that Muslim women wear on their heads is making headlines around the world. Hijab is banned in French public schools and other European countries have adopted, or are drafting similar legislation. In Australia, a radio presenter … Read more