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 (soon to be published) 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 to 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