Windows into the house of Islam: Including women’s spaces

Abstract

<jats:p> We ask which windows into the house of Islam we have traditionally looked through. Perspective determines which questions are asked to understand Islam. As with other fields, Islamic studies have had a focus on official religious texts, formal religious rituals, and public space, written mostly by male scholars. A balanced approach does not assume one normative subject, but views diversity as normative, including female as well as male perspectives. Looking at a few of the areas encountered through women’s standpoints, I ask what new insights they bring in understanding how the gospel meets both Muslim men and women. Other areas also invite our exploration, for a richer understanding of women and men in the Muslim world. </jats:p>