Re: Women and Islam
Salam Alaikom Soulkurri...and all :-)
Domestic violence is a form of control and restriction of rights prevailent...well let me see, globally, by muslim and non-muslim men and a minority of women also.
I do know that hypocritically the 'west' has given rights and passed laws but in reality its a kind of lip service to 'women's rights...and does not honour them.
Ask any woman who has been through the police, court, social services process.
Domestic violence is not recommended in Islam, it is not the key to being married, but there are many men- regardless of belief or unbelief who choose to inflict truly destructive levels of violence and control. Not ordained by Allah, self ordained. And 'privileged' men from all walks of life utilise terror tactics every day...even in some of these posts... I already got a ' threat to kill'...'
Likewise, many men never resort to inflicting harm or control in their marriages and have peace and unity. Alhamdulillah.
Don't lecture me about 'womens' rights issues please, I am more aware than you know. Alhamdulillah my muslim husband is my best friend, he is my confidante and has never laid a finger on me. We are married now for 9 years and I have only ever known him to be my greatest supporter.
Many of my family members (the women mainly) have had a rough ride where marriage is concerned. My mother was deeply concerned when we announced our intention to marry...now Alhamdulillah she loves my husband and considers him a great son and is proud to have a muslim son-in-law! He has opened her eyes.
It is also foolish to believe that the 'western' woman has more freedom- men expect more of her (even strangers seem to think 'hello' said niceley entitles them to privileges only a husband has the right to! and the fight for survival can be tough- I learned wing chun kung fu...(something I have only ever learned to say Alhamdulillah for!)
It is niaeve to believe that Islam is a source of a woman's troubles or imposes restrictions upon women. Western men expect no less from their wives than muslim men do and often do not honour their wives in even basic ways. Women in the west however are empowered to a degree to work, set up independant homes and be free from molestation - but it doesn't mean it is the best or most safe or honourable option. And if life is so great 'independant' style why do so many western women embrace Islam?