Women Under Islam
Book Description
This illuminating exploration challenges common assumptions about women's place within Islamic societies by examining how religious law intersects with cultural and institutional realities. Christina Jones-Pauly and Abir Dajani Tuqan present a nuanced investigation that moves beyond simplistic debates about whether Islamic law inherently disadvantages women.
Through careful analysis of diverse Muslim societies, the authors reveal how identical religious principles can yield dramatically different outcomes for women depending on local contexts. They trace how laws that originally granted women significant rights evolved into instruments of restriction in some societies while remaining progressive in others. The research spans from Tunisia's forward-thinking family policies to Egypt's more traditional legal frameworks, demonstrating the remarkable variation in Islamic law's application.
The authors identify institutional factors as the key determinant of women's legal status, particularly examining how pre-Islamic traditions and judicial independence shape contemporary interpretations. Their case studies include Pakistan's complex legal landscape, where higher courts maintain liberal interpretations despite conservative social pressures, and South Africa's unique constitutional framework that creates space for progressive Islamic jurisprudence.
This scholarly yet accessible work offers readers a deeper understanding of how religious traditions adapt within different political and social environments. For those seeking to comprehend the complex relationship between faith, law, and gender equality, this book provides essential insights into the diverse experiences of Muslim women worldwide.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~6 hours)
📄 Length: 232 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Women
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Social conditions
- ✓ Explore Islamic law
- ✓ Explore Women in islam
- ✓ Explore Women (Islamic law)
- ✓ Explore Islam
- ✓ Explore Religion and state
