The Veil Unveiled: The True Status of Women in Islam (part 3 of 3)

Many of the resurgent pre-Islamic cultural practices that have tragically come to be associated with Islam, such as forced marriages, female genital mutilation, bridal (as opposed to groom-paid) dowries, honor killings and the criminalization of rape victims, only resurfaced following the disruption caused by colonialism and the resulting disconnect between the common Muslims and their sources of knowledge. 

The Veil Unveiled: The True Status of Women in Islam (part 2 of 3)

“And among His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves; that you may dwell with them in serenity and tranquility.  And He has put love and compassion between your hearts.  Truly in that are signs for those who reflect.” (Quran 30:21)

The Veil Unveiled: The True Status of Women in Islam (part 1 of 3)

The Islamic veil or hijab refers to the loose-fitting, plain and opaque outer garments which cover a Muslim woman’s body. 

Why Muslim Women Wear the Veil

In recent years, a small piece of cloth has managed to cause quite a stir.  The scarf or hijab that Muslim women wear on their heads is making headlines around the world.  Hijab is banned in French public schools and other European countries have adopted, or are drafting similar legislation. 

Does Islam Oppress Women?

Fourteen hundred years ago Islam gave women rights; rights that could not have been imagined by European counterparts. 

Women in Islam: Oppression or Liberation?

For centuries, Muslim women in all corners of the world have been aware of the liberation that is achieved by adhering to the concept of hijab.  Current world events have once again brought the issue of women’s liberation in Islam to the forefront of people’s minds.

Elevation of Women’s Status (part 5 of 5): Conclusion

Now, I would like to make one final comment and then I’ll leave it open for questions. Let’s look at the applicabilities of both of these programs. We discussed a lot of ideas, thoughts and beliefs and historical concepts, but when they are actually applied, which of the two view points is more successful?  Which brings more bliss to humanity?