Leïla Babès and Tareq Oubrou: Women's Rights in Islam
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Leïla Babès, Tareq Oubrou, Loi d’Allah, loi des hommes. Liberté, égalité et femmes en islam
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Subtitle: Paris, Albin Michel, 2002, 365 p. (bibliogr., glossaire, index) (coll. « Spiritualités »)
Original source:
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Enzo Pace
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Leïla Babès, Tareq Oubrou, Loi d’Allah, loi des hommes. Liberté, égalité et femmes en islam
Year: 2003 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.1176
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
The text presents a review of the book "Loi d’Allah, loi des hommes. Liberté, égalité et femmes en islam" by Leïla Babès and Tareq Oubrou, published in 2002. The book is structured as a dialogue between Babès, a sociologist and Muslim, and Oubrou, an imam representing a new generation of intellectuals in French Islam. This conversational format draws readers into a passionate discussion about the interpretation of Islamic principles concerning freedom, equality, and the rights of women, aiming to challenge prevalent prejudices and misconceptions about the religion.
2) The Relation Between Islam and Freedom
One significant theme explored in the book is the relationship between Islam and the concept of freedom. Babès challenges the perception of Islam as a religion that enforces constraints. She raises critical issues such as the legitimacy of practices like apostasy punishment and corporal punishment, advocating for an interpretation of the Qur'an that emphasizes its spiritual message over legalistic frameworks. The dialogue reveals the potential of historical-critical methods in religious interpretation, showcasing the need to distinguish between the original teachings of Islam and the later historical developments that often shaped its application.
3) The Status of Women in Islam
Another central topic is the status of women within the Islamic framework. Babès invites Oubrou to examine the disparities between the original teachings of Islam concerning women's rights and contemporary practices. This includes discussions on issues like veiling, inheritance rights, and women's exclusion from public and political spheres. Rather than arguing whether Islam is inherently egalitarian or discriminatory, Babès aims to illustrate that a constructive critique of religious beliefs can coexist with reverence for the faith's core message. This approach seeks to highlight that the discourse around women's rights in Islam should move beyond traditional arguments towards a more nuanced understanding that acknowledges both historical contexts and contemporary realities.
4) Conclusion
In conclusion, "Loi d’Allah, loi des hommes" serves as a poignant contribution to the discourse surrounding Islam, freedom, and women's rights. Through the dialogue format, the authors engage in a thorough examination of pressing concerns within the Muslim community, advocating for a re-evaluation of historical interpretations of the faith. The book emphasizes the importance of critical dialogue in addressing the complexities of religious doctrine and social issues, paving the way for a more progressive understanding of Islam that resonates with contemporary values of equality and justice. Oubrou’s acknowledgment of the potential for new understandings in the faith signifies a hopeful outlook towards the evolution of thought within the Islamic narrative.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main theme of 'Loi d’Allah, loi des hommes'?
The book explores the relationship between Islam, freedom, equality, and women's rights through a dialogue between a sociologist and an imam, addressing contemporary issues in the Muslim world.
Who are the authors of 'Loi d’Allah, loi des hommes'?
The book is co-authored by Leïla Babès, a sociologist, and Tareq Oubrou, an imam, representing a new generation of thinkers in Islam in France.
What formats does the book 'Loi d’Allah, loi des hommes' contain?
The book includes a bibliographic section, glossary, and index to facilitate understanding and study of its content.
What issues do the authors discuss regarding women's rights in Islam?
They analyze the historical treatment of women in Islam compared to original teachings, addressing topics like hijab, legal disparities, and women's roles in public life.
How does the book challenge traditional interpretations of Islamic texts?
The authors advocate for a critical historical approach to interpreting religious texts, arguing that the spiritual messages often supersede the legalistic interpretations current in traditional understandings.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Leïla Babès and Tareq Oubrou: Women's Rights in Islam”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Woman (Women):
The discussion on 'Women' in this context highlights their essential role within 'Religion', particularly how the rights of women in Islam can be examined critically, challenging interpretations drawn from 'Scripture' that may infringe on their freedoms and rights while transforming their position in society.
2) Meditation:
In the historical context, 'Meditation' integrates deeply with 'Religion', manifesting as a spiritual 'Exercise' characterized by reflection and reading that fosters enlightenment and the cultivation of a deeper connection to the divine messages in 'Scripture'.
3) Religion:
'Religion' serves as a framework within which discussions of freedom, rights, and spiritual practice take place, indicating the need for 'Transformation' in how concepts, particularly regarding 'Women', are interpreted in light of modern 'Critique'.
4) Memory:
'Memory' plays a critical role in communities and their 'Transmission' of values, traditions, and beliefs, vital in understanding both personal and collective narratives within a 'Human' context, as seen in historical discussions about faith and hope.
5) Freedom:
'Freedom' is a pivotal concept in the discussion of 'Women' in Islam, as well as in the context of the broader implications for 'Religion', emphasizing the necessity for reform that reconciles 'Ultimate truth' with contemporary sociopolitical realities.
6) Paris:
'Paris' represents a specific cultural and intellectual environment where these dialogues on 'Religion', 'Women', and 'Freedom' intersect, often highlighting the European dimension of contemporary Islamic thought and its nuances.
7) Spiritual:
The 'Spiritual' dimension of 'Meditation' calls for deep reflection on the ultimate truths and transitions present within various an interpretations of 'Religion', and how these relate to the lived experiences of individuals seeking enlightenment.
8) Exercise:
'Exercise' in the context of 'Meditation' denotes a purposeful engagement with texts and ideas that invite practitioners to reflect and critically engage with the 'Ultimate truth' of their beliefs, enhancing their understanding and practice of 'Religion'.
9) Discussion:
'Discussion' facilitates an environment where diverse viewpoints on 'Religion', particularly about 'Women', faith, and cultural identities, can be shared and contested, leading to greater understanding and transformation of thought.
10) Dialogue:
'Dialogue' is essential for bridging differences and fostering understanding within the contexts of 'Religion' and 'Meditation', offering space for critique and reflection on the role of faith in contemporary life.
11) Critique:
'Critique' is vital in examining established 'Religions', allowing for a re-evaluation of sacred texts and practices concerning 'Women' and the conditions imposed by traditional interpretations.
12) Faith:
'Faith' provides the underlying belief system that guides individual and community actions, emphasizing the importance of 'Hope' and 'Memory' in understanding one's place within the larger fabric of 'Religion'.
13) Human:
'Human' experiences are central to discussions about 'Spirituality', providing a lens through which the 'Transformation' in religious practices, especially regarding 'Women', can be viewed critically.
14) Book:
'Book' refers to texts that encapsulate and transmit interpretations of 'Religion', serving as foundational materials for critical reflection and cultural dialogues, particularly surrounding the rights of 'Women'.
15) Hope:
'Hope' is intertwined with the aspirations for equality and enhanced status for 'Women' within 'Religion', representing the potential for transformative change and deeper understanding.
16) Path of meditation:
'Path of meditation' signifies the journey towards enlightenment through disciplined practices of reflection and reading within the theological framework, allowing for personal, spiritual, and communal growth.
17) Ultimate truth:
'Ultimate truth' represents ideals that religious traditions aspire to reveal, necessitating 'Critique' and reflection on their applicability in contemporary contexts, especially concerning equality and human rights.
18) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
'Transformation' within 'Religion' reflects the ongoing process of reinterpreting beliefs and practices that influence the roles and rights of 'Women', paving the way for modern enlightenment and affective societal change.
19) Enlightenment:
'Enlightenment' captures the essence of intellectual and spiritual awakening within 'Religion', urging individuals to critically engage with inherited beliefs, particularly around the issues facing 'Women' in religious contexts.
20) Transmission:
'Transmission' of religious knowledge is critical for maintaining cultural and spiritual identities, ensuring that discussions about 'Women' within 'Religion' are inclusive and reflective of both historical and contemporary realities.
21) Conversation:
'Conversation' represents the ongoing discourse through which 'Religion' is examined and critiqued, offering space for diverse perspectives on spiritual practice and the status of 'Women' in society.
22) Eschatology:
[see source text or glossary: Eschatology]
23) Threatening:
[see source text or glossary: Threatening]
24) Environment:
[see source text or glossary: Environment]
25) Repression:
'Repression' within religious contexts has significant implications for the rights and roles of 'Women', necessitating critical dialogue around the power dynamics at play in the interpretation of sacred texts.
26) Reflection:
'Reflection' is an integral part of 'Meditation', allowing individuals to engage deeply with religious ideas and their implications for personal and communal practice, particularly concerning 'Women'.
27) Revolution:
'Revolution' signifies a transformative change within 'Religion', particularly in the realm of gender equality and the reinterpretation of texts to better serve the rights and identities of women.
28) Salvation:
[see source text or glossary: Salvation]
29) Dimension:
[see source text or glossary: Dimension]
30) Scripture:
'Scripture' serves as the foundational text in 'Religion', presenting opportunities for critical analysis and re-interpretation, particularly regarding the status and rights of 'Women'.
31) Merchant:
[see source text or glossary: Merchant]
32) Theology:
'Theology' offers the frameworks through which 'Religion' is understood, critiqued, and practiced, illuminating paths for the re-examination of beliefs surrounding 'Women' and their roles.
33) Dream (Dreaming):
[see source text or glossary: Dream]
34) Ultimate:
'Ultimate' truths and ideals are pursued within religious contexts, necessitating discourse and engagement with the lived realities of believers, particularly highlighting the importance of advocating for 'Women'.
35) Lineage:
[see source text or glossary: Lineage]
36) Police:
[see source text or glossary: Police]
37) Glance:
[see source text or glossary: Glance]
38) Market:
[see source text or glossary: Market]
39) Gold (Golden):
'Golden' age signifies a peak period in the practice of 'Meditation', reflecting a time when reflection and spiritual engagement flourished in 'Religion'.
40) Cloud:
[see source text or glossary: Cloud]
41) Power:
'Power' dynamics inherently shape interpretations of 'Religion' and the roles of 'Women', necessitating critical reflection on how authority and influence are distributed within faith communities.
42) Crime:
[see source text or glossary: Crime]
43) Truth:
'Truth' within 'Religion' is often contested, requiring ongoing dialogue and critique of interpretations that influence the understanding and roles of 'Women'.
44) Light:
[see source text or glossary: Light]
45) Agent:
'Agent' conveys the idea of individuals as active contributors within the context of 'Religion', emphasizing the role of 'Women' as dynamic participants in the dialogue of faith.
46) Jacob:
[see source text or glossary: Jacob]
47) Union:
[see source text or glossary: Union]
48) Game:
[see source text or glossary: Game]