Opening Remarks:
Ahmed Zaki Yamani begins his lecture by acknowledging the contrasting views among Muslims regarding women’s political competence in Islamic law.

Addressing Critics:
Yamani anticipates critics who may point to Muslim countries where women have achieved political positions. He cites the example of Indonesia, where the vice president is a woman, but emphasizes that she was originally intended to be the president. He highlights the influence of Islamic parties in preventing women from assuming leadership roles.

Challenging Examples:
Yamani questions the progress made in other Muslim countries, such as Iran, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, where women face various obstacles to political participation. He acknowledges women’s struggles in Kuwait to secure voting rights and criticizes Saudi Arabia’s lack of progress in granting women basic rights.

Regional Trends:
Yamani expresses annoyance at the trend of neighboring countries adopting democracy and granting women political rights, citing Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Yemen as examples. He views these developments as a threat to traditional Islamic values.

Doubts About Secular Governments:
Yamani dismisses the achievements of secular governments in promoting women’s rights, questioning their legitimacy as true Muslims.

The Central Question:
Yamani emphasizes the need to address the fundamental question of whether women have the right to participate in politics under Islamic law. He challenges the notion that women should be confined to their homes, with limited mobility and political participation.

Introduction:
Islamic law brought a revolutionary change in women’s rights compared to pre-Islamic societies. The Prophet Muhammad’s era and the following 30 years under the four Khalifas witnessed a significant difference from today’s practices. An Egyptian scholar’s research, based on authentic sources, revealed that women’s status during the Prophet’s time was not much different from modern-day Egyptian women’s behavior.

Equality of Women in Islam:
Women in Islam were considered equal members of society, with some exceptions due to financial reasons or specific responsibilities. The burden of financial responsibilities primarily fell on the husband, ensuring women’s equality in other aspects.

Changing Circumstances and Women’s Status:
Women’s status varied depending on the social environment. In Mecca, women were primarily known for their domestic roles, while in Medina, they were more vocal and influential. The Prophet encouraged women to participate in society and engage in discussions.

Gradual Changes and Shifts:
Over time, there was a gradual change in women’s rights and freedoms. The son of Omar, despite the Prophet’s instructions, restricted women from attending night prayers at the mosque. During the Umayyad Empire in Damascus, Arab women began imitating the Greek custom of veiling. Veiling became prevalent among noble Arab women, despite being uncommon in Medina, where women were forbidden from covering their faces during worship.

Change in circumstances and Islamic law:
Islamic law has changed over time due to changing circumstances. Imam al-Shafi’i, a prominent Islamic jurist, had different legal opinions depending on his location. A change of time and place can lead to significant changes in Islamic law.

Different interpretations of the Quran and Sunnah:
Some scholars interpreted Islamic texts to support restrictions on women’s rights, while others argued for women’s political competence. The main sources of Islamic legislation include the Quran, the Sunnah, consensus, analogy, and public interest.

Two verses from the Quran and their interpretation:
One verse addresses the wives of the Prophet specifically, instructing them to stay at home in Medina. Another verse, al-tawama, is interpreted by some scholars as requiring women to stay at home and avoid public life.

Guardianship and Inferiority:
Some interpreters argue that men hold guardianship over women due to their perceived inferiority, resulting in limitations on women’s control over their homes and political participation.

Opposition to the Guardianship Notion:
Others contend that this guardianship concept applies specifically to the Prophet’s wives and should not be extended to all women. They question the fairness of applying a punishment for adultery from the early days of Islam indefinitely to ordinary women.

The Meaning of Qawwama and Qawwamun:
The Arabic word “qawwama” means protection, care, and rendering services, emphasizing men’s obligation to provide for their wives financially and otherwise. The term “qawwamun” signifies the role of men as providers and protectors, not as dominators.

Interpreting the Hadith on Women’s Deficiency:
Some interpret the Hadith where the Prophet addressed women’s deficiency in religion and experience as evidence of their inferiority. However, a closer examination reveals that the Prophet was addressing dominant women who exerted excessive influence over their husbands, not women in general.

Lack of Experience versus Defect:
The term “naqsatu aqlin wadeen” (deficiency in religion and experience) has been misinterpreted as a defect in women’s intellect and religious practice. Proponents of gender equality argue that this refers to women’s lack of experience in certain areas, particularly in commercial transactions and public affairs.

Women’s Testimony in Court:
In some cases, women’s testimony is considered equal to men’s, especially when it pertains to matters they are more knowledgeable about, such as childbirth and women’s personal experiences.

Women’s Exemptions and Obligations:
Women are not obligated to attend Friday prayers or engage in military combat, which is seen as a way to reduce their burden and allow them to fulfill their household responsibilities. However, there are certain occasions, like special prayers or consultations, where women are required to attend alongside men.

Historical Absence of Women in Leadership Roles:
The absence of women in leadership positions during the Prophet’s time and the early caliphates is acknowledged, but proponents of gender equality argue that this was due to societal factors rather than inherent limitations.

Analogy and Restrictions on Women:
Some scholars use analogy (al-qiyas) to extend restrictions on women, such as the requirement for a mahram (male guardian) when traveling, to public office. Others argue that these restrictions were context-specific and no longer apply in modern times, given the increased safety and ease of travel.

Arguments Against Women’s Rights:
Some argue that women should stay home to care for their husbands and children, as it is in the public interest. Others claim that women are too tempting and might lead men to sin, so they should be kept at home.

Yamani’s Response:
Yamani dismisses these arguments as nonsense. He argues that people can be tempted regardless of women’s presence, and that women should be allowed to go out and work.

Historical Examples of Women in Leadership:
Omar, the second caliph, appointed a woman to judge disputes in the marketplace. Some jurists believed that women could hold any position except the highest post of the Caliph.

The Hadith About Women as Rulers:
Some argue that a Hadith stating that people will never succeed with a woman as their ruler prohibits women from holding leadership positions. Others interpret the Hadith as referring specifically to the top religious office, which has duties that women are not typically expected to perform.

Comparison with the Western Approach:
In the West, women initially tried to base their fight for rights on Christianity, but later shifted to a secular approach. In Islam, the concept of al-tawhid (oneness) provides a strong foundation for women’s rights.

Tawheed: The Oneness of God and Humanity:
The concept of oneness (Tawheed) is central to Islam. Bashar (mankind) and insan (human) are both singular entities, encompassing both men and women. Adam and Eve are seen as a single unit, with their sin attributed to Satan’s influence rather than solely blaming Eve.

Istikhlaf: God’s Appointment of Representatives:
God appointed Adam as His representative (khalifa) on Earth, entrusting him with stewardship and responsibility. Everything on Earth is owned by God, and we act as His agents, receiving instructions and guidance.

Instructions from God: Duties and Obligations:
The instructions given by God include both obligatory duties (farda’in) that everyone must perform and collective obligations (fard kifaya), which can be fulfilled by a group. Political instructions include bay’ah (pledge of allegiance) to a ruler and Shura (consultation), involving both men and women.

Women’s Political Participation in Islam:
Women have historically practiced political roles in Islam. They have participated in bay’ah, offering their opinions and influencing decisions. Umar ibn al-Khattab, a prominent caliph, appointed a woman to oversee the market, demonstrating their involvement in public affairs.

Women’s Contributions in Warfare:
Women have actively engaged in warfare in Islamic history. They have fought in battles, provided nursing care, and supported troops with supplies. One notable example is Um Hakim, who led an all-female army to victory against a Roman force in Palestine.

Women’s Historical Roles:
Historically, women played significant roles in Islamic history, including fighting, leading, and arguing for their beliefs.

Queen Arwa:
Arwa bint Ahmed ruled for 40 years over a large territory encompassing Yemen, Oman, Asir, and part of Saudi Arabia. She was a jurist, a fighter, and a successful ruler. Avenues, hospitals, and mosques in Yemen are named after her. Numerous PhDs, books, and theses have been written about her.

Other Queens in Islamic History:
Professor Anne Marie Chimel identified three more important queens in Islamic history: Radia, Sultana, and Begum of Blopa. These four queens ruled Muslim countries in various periods.

Oneness and Equality:
According to Ahmed Zaki Yamani, the oneness of God implies that men and women are created equal and are here to represent God and act on his behalf. Islamic instructions show no difference between men and women in terms of equality.

Q&A Session:
Yamani invited the audience to ask questions before moving on to refreshments.

Globalization and Narrow-Mindedness:
Ahmed Zaki Yamani expresses concern about narrow-minded individuals who oppose liberalization and globalization. He observes that these individuals are imposing restrictions on women’s movement, even in areas where Islamic law does not necessitate such restrictions. Yamani views this as a reaction against the trend towards women’s rights and empowerment.

Movement for Women’s Rights in the Muslim World:
Yamani recognizes a growing movement in the Muslim world aimed at giving women their rights and treating them as equal to men. He emphasizes the need for women’s participation in society, stating that the public interest requires their involvement.

Addressing Objections to Women’s Rights:
Yamani acknowledges various objections to women’s rights, but dismisses some of them as trivial and nonsensical. He believes that the trend is against those who oppose women’s rights, and he hopes for a smooth transition towards greater equality without major upheavals.

Personal Approach to Raising Daughters:
Yamani shares his approach to raising his daughters, emphasizing that he raised them to function equally in society alongside his sons. He named one of his daughters Arwa, inspired by the great lady Arwa bint Ahmed, demonstrating his ambition for his daughters’ success.

Importance of Islam in Women’s Rights:
Yamani emphasizes the role of Islam in supporting women’s rights, stating that he is a religious person and believes in the principles he has written about. He highlights the Prophet Muhammad’s actions in opening the door for women’s rights in a world that was previously opposed to them.

Islam and Tradition:
Ahmed Zaki Yamani discusses the history of Islam and acknowledges the influence of tribal mentality, Persian culture, and Greek philosophy on its development. He emphasizes the resilience of Islamic principles, despite the changing social environment.

Immigrant Families:
Yamani speaks as a first-generation immigrant who brought his family to a new country. He values the opportunity to provide his children with a balanced upbringing, embracing both cultural traditions and societal values.

Social Environment and Values:
Yamani stresses the significance of the social environment in shaping individuals. He believes that families should actively instill their values in their children to prevent a disconnect between them and society. He advocates for fostering beautiful values, such as politeness, gentleness, and affection, to enhance the value of a human being.

Islamic School in Los Angeles:
Yamani highlights the positive reputation of an Islamic school in Los Angeles, where both Muslim and non-Muslim students attend. He attributes the school’s success to its emphasis on good behavior, politeness, and mutual affection among students.

Response to Robin Hammond’s Question:
Robin Hammond raises the issue of the Taliban’s treatment of women in Afghanistan, contrasting it with Yamani’s positive view of Islam’s preventive settings. Yamani acknowledges the dire situation in Afghanistan and expresses concern over the locking up of women there. He observes that this is in stark contrast to the Muslim world’s general stance on women’s rights.

Oil Geopolitics and the Taliban:
Turkmenistan’s oil and gas discovery created a geopolitical quandary. America, seeking economic independence, wanted to export the oil through Pakistan. The Taliban, trained and financed by America, took over most of Afghanistan to secure the oil route. Russia opposed the Taliban’s rise, while Iran supported them. The conflict became complicated, involving religious and political factors.

The Hadith on Women in Power:
A Hadith attributed to Abu Bakr raised the question of women’s leadership in Islam. The Hadith is criticized for being a single-source narration and lacking strong authentication. Some scholars dismiss it as unreliable, while others consider it context-specific. The Quran praises Queen Balqis of Yemen, suggesting that women’s rule is acceptable under certain conditions. Islamic jurisprudence emphasizes the general meaning of texts and considers specific cases separately. The Hadith is often interpreted as referring specifically to absolute rulers in certain historical contexts.

Views on Women’s Roles:
Some argue that women excel in certain fields, such as patience, peacefulness, and domestic duties. Others point to the Quran’s permission of polygamy as an indication of men’s superiority. These views reflect diverse interpretations of Islamic teachings and societal norms.

Differences Between Men and Women:
Men and women are fundamentally different in terms of anatomy, physiology, and psychology. Women tend to be more patient than men.

Respect for Women in Islam:
Women are respected and looked after in Islamic societies. They are not inferior to men, but rather have different and complementary roles.

Equality and Complementarity:
Equality between men and women does not mean sameness. Each gender has its unique strengths and virtues. The depth of a woman’s mind, her patience, and her love for children are virtues that men cannot match. Men and women complement each other and bring the universe together.

The Dangers of Gender Role Reversal:
When women act in a masculine way, it is seen as unnatural and undesirable. Similarly, when men act in a feminine way, it is seen as weak and contemptible. Each gender should embrace and celebrate its own unique qualities.

Conclusion:
Men and women are different, but they are equal in value and importance. They have complementary roles to play in society, and the universe cannot function properly without both. Gender role reversal is not desirable and can lead to social and personal problems.

Gender Equality in Islamic Inheritance Law:
Islamic inheritance law is often misunderstood, as it grants women half of what men receive in certain situations. However, this is balanced by financial provisions that benefit women.

Dowry and Financial Obligations:
When a man marries, he is required to pay a dowry to the bride. The husband is financially responsible for his wife, children, and extended family, even if the wife is wealthy. In cases where a woman inherits less than her male counterpart, her husband is obligated to support her and her family from his additional inheritance.

Financial Independence and Investment:
Women have the right to keep and invest their own money separately from their husbands. Even if a woman is wealthy, her husband is still responsible for providing for her and their children.

Equality vs. Financial System:
Islamic inheritance law is not a matter of equality or lack thereof, but rather a financial system that takes into account various factors. The law recognizes that men and women have different roles and responsibilities within a family and society.

Polygamy in Historical Context:
Polygamy in human history has often been associated with wealth and power. In some cultures, men with multiple wives were seen as more prosperous and influential. However, Islam introduced restrictions on polygamy, limiting it to specific circumstances and requiring fair treatment of all wives.

Conclusion:
Islamic inheritance law and gender roles are complex and cannot be reduced to simplistic notions of equality or inequality. The law seeks to establish a balanced financial system that recognizes the different roles and responsibilities of men and women within a family and society.

Women’s Roles in Islam:
Islam recognizes the equality of men and women as complementary partners, with each gender having distinct roles. Women are seen as thinkers and nurturers, responsible for managing the household and raising children.

Gender Roles in Judaism:
The Old Testament, according to Yamani, portrays women as inferior to men. Jewish prayers reflect this perspective, with men thanking God for creating them as men rather than women. Yamani believes that the Old Testament contains divine truths but also includes amended and modified portions.

Similarities between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam:
All three religions recognize the importance of the Old Testament as a holy book. There is a shared respect for the people of the book, including both Jews and Christians. Despite differences in interpretation, there is a common belief in the oneness of God and the importance of faith.

The Role of Women in Society:
Yamani acknowledges the contributions of women in various fields, including science and law. He emphasizes the importance of dividing the workload between men and women, recognizing the unique abilities and roles of each gender.

Female Empowerment and Leadership:
Yamani acknowledges the existence of female bishops in Norway, demonstrating the potential for women to hold leadership positions. He also recognizes the significance of Genesis 1 and 2, which portray Adam and Eve as one, suggesting equality between men and women.

Mawdudi’s Perspective on Gender Roles:
Mawdudi believed that males are not as important as females and that females are more disposable. He argued that this idea is supported by evidence in biology and nature, which shows that males are more expendable.

Responding to Mawdudi’s Claims:
A female speaker challenged Mawdudi’s view, stating that women cannot live without men. She emphasized that men and women are created to be together and that the idea of a male norm throughout history is a product of imagination and religion.

Historical and Cultural Influences on Gender Roles:
The speaker pointed out that the attitudes towards gender roles have changed throughout history and across different cultures. She cited examples from Judaism, Christianity, and Islam to illustrate how religious texts and interpretations have shaped societal views on gender.

The Dichotomy between Islam and Muslim Practices:
A question was raised regarding the dichotomy between Islam as a religion and the practices of Muslims in society. The speaker acknowledged that there is a gap between the ideals of Islam and the actual behavior of Muslims.

The Impact of Social and Political Factors on Islamic Practices:
The speaker discussed how social and political factors can influence the way people interpret and practice Islam. He highlighted instances where Muslims have deviated from Islamic teachings due to cultural norms, economic conditions, political corruption, and other external factors.

The Rise of Islamic Movements and Psychopolitical Anxiety:
The speaker identified a phenomenon called “psychopolitical anxiety” as a common factor among many modern Islamic movements. He explained that this anxiety stems from historical injustices inflicted on Muslims by the West and the Arab-Israeli conflict. He argued that this anxiety leads Muslims to seek refuge in Islam as a source of strength and identity.

The Need for Dialogue and Understanding:
The speaker emphasized the importance of dialogue and understanding among different viewpoints to address the challenges faced by Islamic societies. He suggested that seminars and discussions involving diverse perspectives can help shed light on complex issues and promote a more nuanced understanding of Islam and its practices.

Changing Women’s Roles in Saudi Arabia:
Ahmed Zaki Yamani expresses optimism about the progress of women in Saudi Arabia, citing their increasing access to higher education and their growing numbers in the workforce. Yamani emphasizes that women are achieving success not only through formal education but also through life experiences and the use of modern educational resources like the internet and satellites. He notes that women in Saudi Arabia are surpassing men in academic achievements, with more than 50% of the top 10 university graduates being women.

Sunni Views on Women’s Rights:
In response to a question about women’s rights in the Sunni region, Yamani acknowledges that there are different views on this issue in Saudi Arabia. He highlights that despite these varying perspectives, the Sunni community has made strides in granting women key positions and empowering them in various roles. Yamani expresses his belief that if the Sunni community embraces women’s rights, other Muslim states worldwide will follow suit.

Misunderstandings about Islam in the West:
Eric, a participant involved in space travel, raises concerns about the West’s limited understanding of Islam and the monolithic view that often prevails. He points out that some Muslims believe the Quran is unchanging, unlike the Christian Bible, which has undergone revisions. Eric suggests that a greater awareness of the diverse interpretations and positive aspects of Islam would help dispel misconceptions and promote a more nuanced understanding of the religion in the West.

Encouraging Dialogue and Understanding:
Yamani recognizes the need for efforts to contribute to a better understanding of Islam in the West. He views gatherings like the one they are participating in as steps in the right direction, fostering dialogue and encouraging individuals from different religious backgrounds to engage with one another. Yamani emphasizes the importance of Christians and Muslims coming together to listen to each other’s perspectives and fostering mutual understanding.

Common Ground for Dialogue:
Ahmed Zaki Yamani emphasizes the importance of dialogue and information exchange to foster understanding between Muslims and Christians, acknowledging that certain groups may oppose such efforts.

Differences and Respect:
Yamani highlights the differences in Christianity, with multiple New Testaments and the adoption of four holy books, while Islam has a single Qur’an that Muslims believe is revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Despite differences, Yamani stresses the need for mutual respect and acceptance between the two religions.

Historical Misconceptions:
Yamani expresses concern about historical misconceptions and negative portrayals of Islam in Christian texts and teachings, particularly after the Crusades. He mentions the translation of the Qur’an in a misleading manner and negative descriptions of Allah and Islamic practices, which have contributed to deeply ingrained negative perceptions of Islam in European countries.

Impact of Childhood Indoctrination:
Yamani draws a parallel between individuals and nations, suggesting that early childhood teachings can have a lasting impact on beliefs and attitudes. He points out that Europeans were exposed to negative ideas about Muslims before the Renaissance, leading to widespread hatred towards Islam among many individuals.

Interdependence and Cooperation:
Yamani emphasizes the interdependence of Muslims and Christians, stating that they cannot thrive without one another. He urges for cooperation and understanding, highlighting the importance of dialogue and conveying messages to foster positive relationships.

Conclusion:
Yamani expresses appreciation for the opportunity to share his perspective and engage in a dialogue with his audience, demonstrating the potential for productive conversations between different religious groups.