Welcome to another riveting episode of the Women of the Middle East Podcast, where we embark on an illuminating journey into the world of Muslim Marriage. In our latest discussion, we explore the thought-provoking book titled “Justice and Beauty in Muslim Marriage: Towards Egalitarian Ethics and Laws” published in December 2022. As Season 5 of our podcast unfolds, we will delve into the complexities of Muslim marital dynamics, seeking to confront cultural stereotypes and foster a more equitable society.
In this episode, we had the distinct pleasure of hosting Dr Mulki Al-Sharmani , one of the editors and contributing authors of “Justice and Beauty in Muslim Marriage”. Dr. Mulki expertly guided us through the introductory chapter, co-authored by esteemed scholars, which presented an overview of the book’s interconnectedness with “Men in Charge? Rethinking Authority in Muslim Legal Tradition” published in 2015.
The chapter served as a foundation for Musawah’s holistic approach, which combines Islamic teachings, international human rights standards, national laws, and constitutional provisions to uphold equality and acknowledge and validate the lived realities and experiences of #Muslim women.
Engaging in an interesting conversation, we dived deeper into the significance of this groundbreaking book. As a #feminist, scholar, and educator, I had the privilege of discussing with Dr. Mulki the origins and objectives behind “Justice and Beauty in Muslim Marriage.” This remarkable collaborative effort brings together scholars from diverse backgrounds, united in their shared mission to advocate for justice within Muslim families and catalyze the reform of outdated family laws. It is an alliance between rigorous knowledge-building and activism, aimed at effecting tangible change and dismantling gender-based inequalities.
Our conversation focused on the profound impact of Islamic feminism within the realms of knowledge production and social transformation. Dr. Mulki eloquently conveyed how this multifaceted field of inquiry seeks to deconstruct patriarchal interpretations deeply rooted in religious traditions. By tracing the historical development of religious patriarchy and confronting traditional perspectives, Islamic feminists in Musawah offer alternative readings and methodologies that reframe gender relations within Islam. The book, through its comprehensive engagement with various Islamic sciences such as Quranic studies, Sunnah, and Hadith, showcases a rigorous foundation for advocating gender equality rooted in Islamic principles.
As our dialogue progressed, we addressed the obstacles faced by scholars and Islamic feminists in disseminating knowledge and driving societal change. We confronted prevailing misconceptions surrounding feminism, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogues and understanding across diverse perspectives. Dr. Mulki underscored the significance of conceptual clarity and the importance of engaging with different communities to ensure the book’s widespread impact.
Concluding the episode, we reflected on the transformative power of “Justice and Beauty in Muslim Marriage” in reshaping the discourse on Muslim family laws and promoting egalitarian ethics. The Women of the Middle East Podcast, in collaboration with Musawah, remains committed to disseminating knowledge, altering stereotypes, and fostering dialogue that inspires profound and tangible change within Islamic societies. Through critical engagement with Islamic textual traditions and the amplification of diverse voices, we pave the way for justice, equality, and a future that upholds the rights and dignity of all individuals.
