An Examining of Women’s Doubts Concerning the Quran in the Encyclopedia of Oliver Leaman

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Corresponding Author): Assistant Professor, University of Islamic Teachings, Qom, Iran

2 PhD Candidate, University of Islamic Teachings, Qom, Iran

Abstract

“The Quran, An Encyclopedia” commonly referred to as the Quran Encyclopedia, is a work compiled by Oliver Leaman, an American scholar. This encyclopedia covers a wide range of topics and discussions related to the Quran and its interpreters. Like other works of orientalists, this encyclopedia even has useful contents but presents doctrinal and jurisprudential doubts that require further examination. This paper with a descriptive-analytical approach explores three specific doubts: “The portrayal of women as Satanic according to the Quran,” “The preference of males over females in the Quran,” and “The allocation of heavenly blessings exclusively to men.” The research findings highlight the mistakes made by orientalists in their understanding of the status of women in the Quran, primarily due to their neglect of other Quranic verses and Islamic concepts. Contrary to their assertions, Islam does not view men as a superior gender. The Quran presents exemplary female figures such as Lady Maryam and Asiya, who serve as role models for both men and women. Furthermore, differences between men and women in certain rulings, despite the specific conditions and regulations outlined by Islam, are rooted in principles of justice. According to certain Quranic verses, both men and women who perform good deeds are equally entitled to heavenly blessings.

Keywords

References

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The Qur’an from Orientalists Point of View
Volume 18, Issue 34 - Serial Number 34
(Registration No. 124/ 5086 Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance) Volume 34, Spring and Summer 2023
September 2023
Pages 117-138

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 September 2023
  • Accept Date: 21 September 2023

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