This course is based on the book ‘Al-Muhaddithat: The Women Scholars in Islam’ by Shaykh Akram Nadwi and will be taught by the author himself. This book serves as an accessible English language introduction to the multi-voluminous biographical dictionary that has also been researched and compiled by Shaykh Akram. These female scholars and their legacies have been preserved within Islamic history in a number of ways and their presence attests to a tradition of learning throughout the centuries. As hadith narrators, teachers, jurists, wives, mothers and daughters, these women have contributed to the growth and development of the Muslim community on a social, moral and intellectual level since the 7th century. They supported and were supported by others in such a manner that indicates a sense of mutual respect and cooperation. As Muslims today, we stand to benefit from these intentions and reciprocal values. Learning about these women and their context is “essential for a balanced appreciation of the role of women in Islamic society”.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn about the changes in Islamic curricula studied by women over the centuries
• Become acquainted with a number of prominent and lesser known female scholars in Islam
• Learn more about their lives, contributions and Islamic sciences studied
• Gain a greater understanding of their historical contexts