spun and dun

[Sofiyya 1,687]

Wow, thank god for you. I wish I could meet more Muslim women like you - this has been my problem from the get-go - seeing converts buy into a strange identity replacement including name change, headscarving and submissive behavior.

While I was in Morocco I met a scholar from Atlanta -- a convert, a thinker and a feminist - also a very happy single Mom. She said exactly the same things you are saying -- she concetrates on improving the academic knowledge of Islam by teaching it at university level. She was also surprised to see women (from Christian backgrounds) become so submissive and anti-Christian after conversion (usually from husband-pressure). When I read stuff like this it actually affrims the beauty and potential *I* see in Islam, both for myself and for the world.

Thank you, Amanda. I am deeply gratified by your words. I received my early education and much of my later Islamic education in Morocco. There is something in the spirit there that allows women to feel free to think and be. I have women friends who teach in Morocco, some from Atlanta, so I may even know this woman who inspired you, alhamdulillah!

Islam is about beauty, although it has been hard to relate that fact lately, even among Muslims. If I may suggest some reading material to you along these lines, there is Shaykh Khaled Abou El Fadl's "Conference of the Books: The Search for Beauty in Islam". He wrote it specifically to address the dicotomy between the darker, stagnant expressions of Islam that are so prevalent today, and its bright, vibrant and dynamic history. The book is not only informative, but well written for the layman. It is excellent reading! Also, on the subject of strong women in Muslim history, I highly recommend "The Scimitar and the Veil: The Extraordinary Women of Islam", by Jennifer Heath.

The Prophet Muhammad was nurtured by and surrounded himself with wise, strong independent women. They financed his ministry, debated him, inspired scripture, owned businesses, fought along side him in battle, advised him regarding law and procedure. These are the stories that go untold and leave those who do not know the understanding that Islam oppresses women, when our history does not reflect that.

My invitation is open to anyone who wishes to contact me to share and discuss the faith. Ramadan is a special time in which to keep your mind occupied with remembrances of God and drawing closer to Him in ways that add meaning to your faith experience.

Edited September 9, 2006 by szsz

[amal 4]

I may just have to check those out! Even tho they weren't posted for me...I'm interested in what they have to say. I am always asking questions about Islam and I'm sure my husband is going to get tired of answering or trying to find the answers to the things he's not 100% sure of......

[noura 0]

I may just have to check those out! Even tho they weren't posted for me...I'm interested in what they have to say. I am always asking questions about Islam and I'm sure my husband is going to get tired of answering or trying to find the answers to the things he's not 100% sure of......

me too, thanks szsz I don't even know why, I just got teary eyed reading these last 2 posts... nothing emotional in them except mention of the beauty of Islam, but nonetheless, I got a lump in my throat and my eyes welled up (???) dunno what that's about....

but thank you!

Noura

[Sofiyya 1,687]

You're welcome, ladies. Please consider anything I post that is of use to you to be for you. What most people learn about the faith is only a tip of the iceberg, there is so much beauty and honor within Allah's intent for all of us, Muslim and non-Muslim. I have had the opportunity to learn much and to work with scholars whose emphasis is on the broad Message of love, unity, justice, morality, compassion, mercy for all humanity spread by Islam since the beginning of time. It's been a blessing that I enjoy sharing.

[amal 4]

You're welcome, ladies. Please consider anything I post that is of use to you to be for you. What most people learn about the faith is only a tip of the iceberg, there is so much beauty and honor within Allah's intent for all of us, Muslim and non-Muslim. I have had the opportunity to learn much and to work with scholars whose emphasis is on the broad Message of love, unity, justice, morality, compassion, mercy for all humanity spread by Islam since the beginning of time. It's been a blessing that I enjoy sharing.

absolutely....and it does take a bit of openmindedness to grasp the beauty of certain things...I have had ppl ask all sorts of questions because they see it in such a negative light...once I can explain the actual reason behind some of the rules they, in turn, have a better view of Islam and that just makes my heart so proud

[noura 0]

okee dokee... I just ordered both of those books! I'll let you know later how it all goes

[amal 4]

i will be waiting to see how they go