Islamic feminism is a term that is often heard these days. It is a form of feminism that actually aims for the equality of all Muslims around the world, irrespective of their gender. You can find Islamic feminists in various parts of the world. An Islamic feminist advocates gender equality and social justice which is grounded within an Islamic framework. Although heavily influenced by and rooted in Islam, there are many an Islamic feminist who have borrowed concepts from secular and western feminist ideas. There are many a modern day Islamic feminist who wants to integrate their struggle with the global feminist movement. Islamic feminism seeks to highlight the teachings of Quran which are for equality of both men and women. While doing so they also encourage a questioning of the patriarchal interpretation of the teachings in Quran. The entire movement is aimed towards creation of a more just society where everyone, irrespective of their gender is treated equally.
Islamic feminism as a movement took its root in the later part of the nineteenth century. Qasim Amin, an Egyptian and author of the famous book ‘Women’s Liberation’ is often considered the father of the movement. He was the first one who had criticized some of the practices such as wearing of the veil, purdah and polygamy which were present during his time in the Egyptian society. He took up cudgels on behalf of the suffering women and condemned these practices as being contradictory to the teachings of Prophet Mohammad. His pioneering work was to influence women’s thinking and political movements in the Islamic world in a big way.
There have been instances of European feminist magazines released during Amin’s time discussing the relevance of his feminist ideas. However Islamic scholars have their own interpretation of Islamic feminism. According to them the entire concept of Islamic feminism is anchored with the teachings of the Holy Quran. One can find many an Islamic feminist adhering to this notion. The concept of Islamic feminism owes its growth to the efforts of many an Islamic feminist though. You can find several Islamic groups which are trying to find support from different parts of the society. Many educated Muslim women too have been instrumental in the growth of the movement. Thus many an Islamic feminist has been able to make a contribution towards the growth of the entire movement. The holy Quran also gives a large degree of respect to women. There are certain aspects such as property rights, to mention only one, which are the basis for the struggle of many an Islamic feminist.
Another set of people driving the entire idea of Islamic feminism are the educated Muslim women who have been vocally bringing up the issue of woman’s right at various international forums around the world. One can find a great deal of information on the various forums by visiting online resources dedicated to the subject.
The rise of Islamic feminism is also linked to the increasing influence of western ideas on the Islamic world as such. The major area of debate for many an Islamic feminist has been with regards to the Muslim Personal Law which deals with testation, divorce and marriage. Generally speaking, Islamic feminists have objected to the legislations pertaining to the Muslim personal law, which they feel discriminates women and denies them some of the most fundamental rights.