Book: Muslim Women: Paths of Activism
Author:Dr. Mohiuddin Ghazi
Translator: Dr Parvez Mandviwala
Publisher:Markazi Maktaba Islami Publishers, New Delhi
Year: September 2024
Pages: 174
Price: 140
Reviewed by UmmeSumbulaZuha
How often do we hear about the roles Muslim women have played in history? Not enough, right? That’s why Muslim Women: Paths of Activism by Dr. Mohiuddin Ghazi felt so refreshing to me. It breaks stereotypes and shines a light on how Muslim women have contributed to activism – socially, politically, and religiously.
What I loved most about this book was its perspective. It doesn’t treat activism as a borrowed idea or something foreign to Islamic teachings. Instead, Dr. Ghazi shows how leadership and influence have always been part of women’s roles in Islam, giving examples of changemakers who stayed true to their faith.
The book is divided into nine chapters, each focusing on a different area where women can make an impact. It starts by encouraging women to explore their dreams and expand their horizons. One of my favourite parts was when the author said that being a girl doesn’t mean confining your ambitions to the walls of your home. That really hits home for me.
In Chapter 2, the focus shifts to education. Dr. Ghazi stresses that both boys and girls need equal access to knowledge. He includes examples of Muslim women from history who were highly educated and made a difference in their communities.
Chapter 3 talks about how women play a key role in building strong families and communities. The author writes that a harmonious family often depends on the strength and wisdom of a woman. In Chapter 4, he highlights social work – whether it’s financial support, legal help, or simply using your skills to uplift others.
One section I found truly inspiring was Chapter 5. It talks about women who used their voices to bring about change. I loved the story of Umm Zainab Fatima of Baghdad, who gave public speeches that impacted so many women in Damascus.
The later chapters explore financial independence, governance, and the sacrifices women made for Islam. The story of Fatima and Maryam al-Fihri stood out to me. They used their inheritance to establish the world’s oldest university – how amazing is that?
The final chapter is all about inspiring change. It gives examples of women from Islamic history, like Lady Maryam for her purity and Lady Khadijah for her loyalty and support. These women are such great role models for us today.
This book isn’t just about looking back at history. It’s about what Muslim women can do right now. Dr. Ghazi shows that Islam has always empowered women to take leadership roles and make a difference.
I think this book will really speak to young women who want to contribute to society without giving up their faith. It’s a reminder that activism and leadership aren’t foreign to Islamic values – they’re part of them.
Muslim Women: Paths of Activism is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the true role of women in Islam. It’s empowering, practical, and inspiring.
To me, it wasn’t just a history lesson – it was a call to action. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a homemaker, this book reminds us that every woman has the potential to create positive change.