Unveiling Islamic feminism : a critical analysis on Fatema Mernissi’s views on the concept of gender equality in Islam

Abstract

This research investigates Islamic feminism, focusing on the influential scholar-activist Fatema Mernissi. It begins by examining the rise of Islamic feminism as a response to patriarchal interpretations of Shari’ah law, highlighting how Islamic feminists challenged traditional norms and advocated for a feminist reinterpretation of Islamic texts. These feminist groups gained prominence by addressing discriminatory practices against Muslim women, especially in family and personal status laws. The study underscores the vital role of scholar-activists like Mernissi, a Moroccan sociologist, whose work has left a lasting impact on contemporary Islamic feminism. Mernissi’s exploration of women's historical experiences in early Islamic history and her critique of misogynistic ḥadīths significantly shaped her influence in feminist discourse. Her ideas have crossed geographical boundaries, gaining recognition in both Western and Eastern feminist circles. This research delves into Mernissi's alternative approach to interpreting religious texts, which challenges mainstream Islamic views on women’s roles and rights. By examining her perspective on gender equality through her writings, the study provides insights into ongoing discussions within Islamic feminism, especially in relation to current global gender equality issues. Using qualitative analysis and critical methods, the research explores Islamic feminist theories, focusing on Mernissi's views on gender equality. A comparative analysis contrasts her ideas with traditional Islamic perspectives, including selected Qur’anic verses, the traditions of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم, and the views of prominent Muslim scholars. The findings reveal Mernissi’s critical stance on the Islamic concept of gender equality, while also emphasizing the importance of addressing global gender equality concerns. Despite her negative perception of some Islamic gender concepts, the study acknowledges the validity of some of her arguments and the need to address the gender equality issues she raises. The research advocates for incorporating positive aspects of Mernissi's approach, particularly her self-critical examination, into contemporary Islamic discourse. It highlights the need for a Muslim think tank to re-evaluate and develop new approaches to gender equality issues, ensuring these solutions align with the Islamic concept of justice and are relevant to modern realities.