Islam and Gender in Colonial Northeast Africa

Book Description

Through the remarkable life of Sitti 'Alawiyya al-Mirghani, a woman who navigated the complex spiritual and social currents of early twentieth-century Northeast Africa, this scholarly work illuminates the profound intersections between Islamic practice, gender roles, and colonial transformation. Silvia Bruzzi weaves together the story of al-Mirghani, who represented a prominent transnational Sufi order in the Red Sea region from 1892 to 1940, with the broader historical forces that shaped her world.

This exploration extends far beyond individual biography to examine how Islamic movements and gender dynamics evolved under colonial rule in Northeast Africa. Bruzzi draws connections across vast geographical and cultural landscapes, tracing influences that flowed between the Red Sea, Ethiopian highlands, and Mediterranean territories. Her research reveals how spiritual traditions adapted and persisted despite political upheaval and foreign governance.

For readers interested in understanding how faith communities maintain their essence while responding to external pressures, this work offers valuable insights into resilience and adaptation. The book demonstrates how women within Islamic societies navigated religious authority, social expectations, and colonial constraints while preserving their spiritual heritage.

By reconstructing these historical narratives from fragmentary sources, Bruzzi contributes essential perspectives on women's experiences within Muslim communities, offering contemporary readers a deeper appreciation for the complexity and richness of Islamic spiritual traditions across cultures and centuries.