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Sexual Ethics and Islam: Feminist Reflections on Qur'an, Hadith, and Jurisprudence by Kecia Ali
hinalovestoread's review
4.0
This book is a thought-provoking and informative book that delves into the complex and often controversial topic of sexual ethics within the framework of Islam. Drawing from Qur'anic interpretations, Hadith (Prophetic traditions), and jurisprudential debates, the author offers nuanced insights and feminist reflections on various aspects of sexual ethics, shedding light on the diversity of Islamic perspectives on gender, sexuality, marriage, and family.
One of the intriguing aspects of this book is that the author presents a wide range of perspectives from different schools of thought within Islam, without imposing any hard and fast conclusions. Kecia Ali approaches the subject matter with sensitivity, critical analysis, and deep engagement with classical and contemporary Islamic sources. She navigates through complex discussions on topics such as sexual consent, homosexuality, polygamy, reproductive rights, and gender roles, offering diverse interpretations and highlighting the diversity of opinions within Islamic tradition.
The book is well-researched and presents a comprehensive overview of the historical and contemporary debates on sexual ethics in Islam. The author critically engages with traditional interpretations, challenges patriarchal norms, and highlights the importance of feminist perspectives in addressing gender-based inequalities within Muslim communities. Kecia Ali also incorporates the voices of Muslim women scholars and activists who have contributed to the discourse on sexual ethics from a feminist standpoint.
One of the strengths of the book is the author's skillful presentation of complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner, making it approachable for readers with different levels of familiarity with Islamic studies. The book provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the diverse perspectives on sexual ethics within the Islamic tradition, and how these perspectives continue to evolve in contemporary times.
Another notable aspect of the book is its emphasis on leaving the conclusions to the reader. Rather than imposing a singular viewpoint or agenda, Kecia Ali encourages critical thinking and reflection, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the evidence and arguments presented.
In conclusion, this one is a highly informative and thought-provoking book that offers a comprehensive exploration of sexual ethics in Islam. With its nuanced approach, feminist reflections, and emphasis on diverse perspectives, the book contributes to the ongoing discourse on the intersection of Islam, gender, and sexuality, and invites readers to critically engage with the complex and evolving nature of this topic.
P.S. It's always recommended to read multiple sources and consult various perspectives to form a well-rounded understanding of any topic, including sensitive and complex issues like sexual ethics in religion.
One of the intriguing aspects of this book is that the author presents a wide range of perspectives from different schools of thought within Islam, without imposing any hard and fast conclusions. Kecia Ali approaches the subject matter with sensitivity, critical analysis, and deep engagement with classical and contemporary Islamic sources. She navigates through complex discussions on topics such as sexual consent, homosexuality, polygamy, reproductive rights, and gender roles, offering diverse interpretations and highlighting the diversity of opinions within Islamic tradition.
The book is well-researched and presents a comprehensive overview of the historical and contemporary debates on sexual ethics in Islam. The author critically engages with traditional interpretations, challenges patriarchal norms, and highlights the importance of feminist perspectives in addressing gender-based inequalities within Muslim communities. Kecia Ali also incorporates the voices of Muslim women scholars and activists who have contributed to the discourse on sexual ethics from a feminist standpoint.
One of the strengths of the book is the author's skillful presentation of complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner, making it approachable for readers with different levels of familiarity with Islamic studies. The book provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the diverse perspectives on sexual ethics within the Islamic tradition, and how these perspectives continue to evolve in contemporary times.
Another notable aspect of the book is its emphasis on leaving the conclusions to the reader. Rather than imposing a singular viewpoint or agenda, Kecia Ali encourages critical thinking and reflection, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the evidence and arguments presented.
In conclusion, this one is a highly informative and thought-provoking book that offers a comprehensive exploration of sexual ethics in Islam. With its nuanced approach, feminist reflections, and emphasis on diverse perspectives, the book contributes to the ongoing discourse on the intersection of Islam, gender, and sexuality, and invites readers to critically engage with the complex and evolving nature of this topic.
P.S. It's always recommended to read multiple sources and consult various perspectives to form a well-rounded understanding of any topic, including sensitive and complex issues like sexual ethics in religion.
jokos's review
3.0
Finished it almost a month ago, still don't know exactly how I feel about this.
I liked that it seemed to be written for Muslims familiar with Islam and discussions around certain topics, with less of an apologetic, more analytical view. All while recognising that it's hard to write objectively and critically about Islam without being defensive since Islamophobia and negative stereotypes are so widespread in our "Western society".
However, having read about the thousands of female scholars in Al-Muhaddithat: The Women Scholars in Islam, it was kind of tragic that she referenced mainly male scholarly opinions (even though it was usually to call them out) and even said something to the effect of sexual ethics should just be discussed by scholars because this inherently excludes women.
Also, felt a bit like she was analysing individual scholars, books and topics according to "modern values" without taking into account the general values and context of the faith, which is a bit unbalanced as none of this exists in a vacuum.
I liked that it seemed to be written for Muslims familiar with Islam and discussions around certain topics, with less of an apologetic, more analytical view. All while recognising that it's hard to write objectively and critically about Islam without being defensive since Islamophobia and negative stereotypes are so widespread in our "Western society".
However, having read about the thousands of female scholars in Al-Muhaddithat: The Women Scholars in Islam, it was kind of tragic that she referenced mainly male scholarly opinions (even though it was usually to call them out) and even said something to the effect of sexual ethics should just be discussed by scholars because this inherently excludes women.
Also, felt a bit like she was analysing individual scholars, books and topics according to "modern values" without taking into account the general values and context of the faith, which is a bit unbalanced as none of this exists in a vacuum.
misssusan's review
4.0
kecia ali really is out here insisting we think critically and engage honestly with the islamic legal tradition instead of letting us be comfortable, huh?
message received ma'am, i expect i'll be thinking over this book for awhile
4 stars
message received ma'am, i expect i'll be thinking over this book for awhile
4 stars
katrinadalythompson's review
5.0
This may be the best book I have read on Islam, covering many issues I have struggled with as a feminist Muslim. She does a great job at clarifying distinctions between what the Qur'an, hadith, and Muslim scholars say about women, gender, and sex, calling into question claims about a monolithic and timeless "Islam" that one can turn to on these important issues and refusing to brush over issues that are problematic for those committed to gender justice, even in the Qur'an itself. My only disappointment was that, in keeping an academic tone to the book, the author never makes clear how she herself has resolved these issues in her own practice of Islam.
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