Title: Status of women in Islam.

POPLINE Document Number: 120519

Author(s):

Khan MS

Source citation:

New Delhi, India, A.P.H. Publishing Corporation, 1996. xii, 180 p.

Abstract:

This book compares the status of Muslim women in India according to Islamic law and in contemporary life (as revealed by survey data from the National Seminars). A review of the Holy Quran and the Traditions (sayings by the Prophet) suggests that current religious leaders have deviated from the principle of equality between the sexes outlined in these ancient writings. The Quran has been misinterpreted by Islamic fundamentalists to justify the imposition of restrictions on women's rights and freedom. In fact, the rise of Islam was associated with encouragement of women to participate in building up the social life of the Muslim community. Islamic conservatism has led many women to adopt permissive Western ideals, to the detriment of family honor and public decency. To close the gap between the Quran and reality, the government of India must fulfill its constitutional obligation to provide free and compulsory primary and middle education to all boys and girls; the Muslim minority should be given special funds to start its own schools for the education of Muslim girls; Muslim philanthropies should prepare books for teaching religious education at all levels; and modern education in areas such as the social sciences, medicine, and business management should be promoted to prepare Muslim women to participate effectively in development.

Keywords:

India
Historical Review
Critique
Islam
Women's Status
Gender Issues
Inequalities
Employment Status
Family and Household
Social Policy
Women
Asia, Southern
Asia
Developing Countries
Religion
Socioeconomic Factors
Economic Factors
Socioeconomic Status
Policy
Demographic Factors
Population