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Women, the Family, and Divorce Laws in Islamic History
The eighteen essays in this volume cover a wide range of material and reevaluate women's studies and Middle Eastern studies, Muslim women and the Shari'a courts, the Ottoman household, Dhimmi communities, children and family law, morality, and violence.
378 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1996
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About the author
Amira El-Azhary Sonbol
10 books6 followersAmira Sonbol specializes in the history of modern Egypt, Islamic history and law, women, gender and Islam and is the author of several books including The New Mamluks:Egyptian Society and Modern Feudalism; Women, the Family and Divorce Laws in Islamic History; The Creation of a Medical Profession in Egypt: 1800-1922; The Memoirs of Abbas Hilmi II: Sovereign of Egypt; Women of the Jordan: Islam, Labor and Law; Beyond the Exotic:Muslim Women's Histories. Professor Sonbol is Editor-in-Chief of HAWWA: the Journal of Women of the Middle East and the Islamic World published by E.J. Brill and Co-Editor of Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations, a quarterly journal co-published with Selly Oak Colleges (UK). She teaches courses on the History of Modern Egypt, Women and Law, and Islamic Civilization.
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February 15, 2012
الكتاب مذهل ورائع، سأعود للتفاصيل عندما يكون لدي وقت بإذن الله
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March 16, 2011good
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April 3, 2025Book Review: Women, the Family, and Divorce Laws in Islamic History edited by Amira El-Azhary Sonbol
In Women, the Family, and Divorce Laws in Islamic History, edited by Amira El-Azhary Sonbol, the complexities of women’s roles within the framework of Islamic family law are meticulously examined through a collection of scholarly essays. Initially published in 1996, this volume brings together contributions from various scholars who explore historical and contemporary issues related to divorce laws and their implications for women in Islamic societies.
Summary and Themes
The book presents a multi-faceted analysis of women’s legal status and the evolution of family law in Islamic contexts, with a focus on divorce. Key themes addressed in the volume include:
Historical Context and Legal Framework: The essays provide an in-depth historical overview of how Islamic family law has developed over centuries. The contributors analyze the Sharia’s influence on gender relations and the ways in which legal interpretations have evolved, often reflecting broader socio-political changes within Muslim societies.
Cultural Variability: The contributions highlight the diversity of experiences among women in various Islamic cultures. The authors explore regional variations in the application of divorce laws, demonstrating that the impact of these laws is not uniform but rather shaped by local customs, state policies, and socio-economic factors.
Women’s Agency and Resistance: A significant aspect of the discourse revolves around women’s agency in navigating the constraints of family law. The essays illustrate how women have historically engaged with, adapted to, and sometimes resisted legal norms to assert their rights and agency, challenging the narrative of women as mere victims within patriarchal structures.
Contemporary Challenges: The book also addresses contemporary issues faced by women concerning divorce and family law, including questions of inheritance, custody, and legal representation. This discussion is crucial for understanding the continued relevance of these laws in the modern context and how women are advocating for reform.
Interdisciplinary Perspectives: By incorporating various disciplinary approaches—including history, sociology, and legal studies—the volume enriches the analysis of gender and family law, encouraging readers to consider the interplay between law, culture, and religion.
Critical Analysis
Sonbol’s edited volume is commendable for its academic rigor and comprehensive approach. The diversity of voices and perspectives makes it a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in gender studies, Islamic law, and Middle Eastern history. Each essay is well-researched, providing a blend of historical context and contemporary analysis that enhances the reader’s understanding of the complexities surrounding women’s issues in Islamic legal frameworks.
However, some critiques may arise regarding the balance of perspectives presented. While the volume effectively highlights women’s struggles and agency, a deeper exploration of the perspectives of men and the societal structures that support patriarchal norms would have provided a more holistic view. Additionally, the book could benefit from updates reflecting recent developments in both legal reforms and social movements within Muslim communities.
Conclusion
Women, the Family, and Divorce Laws in Islamic History is an essential addition to the literature on gender and Islamic law. Amira El-Azhary Sonbol has curated a thought-provoking collection that not only uncovers the historical evolution of divorce laws in Islamic contexts but also emphasizes the persistent challenges and resilience of women. This volume serves as a critical resource for anyone seeking to understand the intricate relationship between law, family, and gender in Islamic history, making it a significant contribution to the field of Islamic studies and women’s rights advocacy.
In Women, the Family, and Divorce Laws in Islamic History, edited by Amira El-Azhary Sonbol, the complexities of women’s roles within the framework of Islamic family law are meticulously examined through a collection of scholarly essays. Initially published in 1996, this volume brings together contributions from various scholars who explore historical and contemporary issues related to divorce laws and their implications for women in Islamic societies.
Summary and Themes
The book presents a multi-faceted analysis of women’s legal status and the evolution of family law in Islamic contexts, with a focus on divorce. Key themes addressed in the volume include:
Historical Context and Legal Framework: The essays provide an in-depth historical overview of how Islamic family law has developed over centuries. The contributors analyze the Sharia’s influence on gender relations and the ways in which legal interpretations have evolved, often reflecting broader socio-political changes within Muslim societies.
Cultural Variability: The contributions highlight the diversity of experiences among women in various Islamic cultures. The authors explore regional variations in the application of divorce laws, demonstrating that the impact of these laws is not uniform but rather shaped by local customs, state policies, and socio-economic factors.
Women’s Agency and Resistance: A significant aspect of the discourse revolves around women’s agency in navigating the constraints of family law. The essays illustrate how women have historically engaged with, adapted to, and sometimes resisted legal norms to assert their rights and agency, challenging the narrative of women as mere victims within patriarchal structures.
Contemporary Challenges: The book also addresses contemporary issues faced by women concerning divorce and family law, including questions of inheritance, custody, and legal representation. This discussion is crucial for understanding the continued relevance of these laws in the modern context and how women are advocating for reform.
Interdisciplinary Perspectives: By incorporating various disciplinary approaches—including history, sociology, and legal studies—the volume enriches the analysis of gender and family law, encouraging readers to consider the interplay between law, culture, and religion.
Critical Analysis
Sonbol’s edited volume is commendable for its academic rigor and comprehensive approach. The diversity of voices and perspectives makes it a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in gender studies, Islamic law, and Middle Eastern history. Each essay is well-researched, providing a blend of historical context and contemporary analysis that enhances the reader’s understanding of the complexities surrounding women’s issues in Islamic legal frameworks.
However, some critiques may arise regarding the balance of perspectives presented. While the volume effectively highlights women’s struggles and agency, a deeper exploration of the perspectives of men and the societal structures that support patriarchal norms would have provided a more holistic view. Additionally, the book could benefit from updates reflecting recent developments in both legal reforms and social movements within Muslim communities.
Conclusion
Women, the Family, and Divorce Laws in Islamic History is an essential addition to the literature on gender and Islamic law. Amira El-Azhary Sonbol has curated a thought-provoking collection that not only uncovers the historical evolution of divorce laws in Islamic contexts but also emphasizes the persistent challenges and resilience of women. This volume serves as a critical resource for anyone seeking to understand the intricate relationship between law, family, and gender in Islamic history, making it a significant contribution to the field of Islamic studies and women’s rights advocacy.
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