Chapter 53: Women as Leaders in Islam

Ahmed E. Souaiaia

Women as leaders in Islam This chapter highlights the role some women who ascended to leadership positions have played in the various realms of Islamic life. Given that the Islamic civilization has been in existence for more than 1,000 years, I am forced to be highly selective of the personalities and topics. Because the focus is on women as leaders in Islam, I am also compelled to focus on the period from the time of Prophet Muhammad until precolonial time. This is significant, as women's leadership during the colonial and postcolonial era is contested on the basis of Western influence (or lack thereof) in shaping Muslim women's participation in public life. Selectivity, however, does not mean that I will profile only women who contributed positively. In fact, I will not discriminate between women who were part of the ruling elite and those who challenged it, those who preserved tradition and ...

Users without subscription are not able to see the full content on this title. Please, subscribe or login to access all content on this website.

• Buy The Book