Women in Islam Prepared by Jack Mahoney

Roles of Women in the Qur’an Men and women are equal Revelations directed to “men & women” (33:35) What truly matters is not male/female, but whether they believe in Allah (9:71, 4:124) Provisions for the physical & financial well-being of women (2:236, 2:240) Men and women are not equal Daughters inherit half as much property Valued mostly as mothers and wives

Surah 4: “The Women” 19-25: The treatment of wives, and proper courtship 32: Fair treatment of women 34: Roles of husbands in regard to wives and their loyalty There are numerous unnamed women throughout the Qur’an that are mentioned, such as the wives of the prophet.

Importance of Mary Maryam (Mary, Mother of Jesus) is the only woman named in the entire Qur'an. Mary, mother of Christ (3:35-37, 42-47, 19: 16-29) Virgin conception and role as mother of the “Messiah” recognized in the Qur’an Chosen by and obedient to Allah There are some references to Elizabeth, though she is never named (3:37-41, 19:1-15)

Modern Muslim Women (Reformed Areas) America, Europe, parts of Middle East Women, as well as men, are encouraged to become as educated as they can Right to an official position in a mosque is disputed by many (Female Imam one day?) Fully emancipated Enjoy all rights and privileges that men have Are not second grade members of community Following Hijab is often optional

Modern Muslim Women (Conservative Areas) Africa, most of Middle East, Asia Religious law often heavily enforced in public A Burka, which covers all parts of the body except the eyes are often mandatory for women Women prevented from being employed, not allowed to drive, vote, hold office or seek divorce. given very few rights, they are rarely allowed to testify in court Honor killings are still a major problem Ayaan Hirsi Ali

Ingrid Mattson New president of the "Islamic Society of North America” Professor of Islamic Studies and Director of Islamic Chaplaincy Dr. Mattson earned her Ph.D. in Islamic Studies from the University of Chicago in Her research is focused on Islamic law and society. Convert from Catholicism, first woman to lead the organization.

Summary Mary only woman specifically mentioned in the Qur’an, she is mentioned several times and in many places. The Qur’an makes several references to the equality of Women, emphasizing modesty over subjection Modern Muslim Woman are often subject to the laws of their respective areas; some strict, others free. Women are gaining power and influence Materials from: Janel Alimboyoguen, Gwyneth Calipjo, Julia Conley, Elly Guadarram, Leslie Kincaid, John Michael Reyes, Max Altshuld, Subhan Ayoubi, Cierra Cass, Chad Greer, Dani Lencioni, Gina Belmonte, Taylor Chaput, Katrina Gould and Lindsay Smith