iRead recap: Ms. Thana Numan, Olive Tree Foundation

Ms. Numan, a young Muslim woman, began her presentation by showing images of women wearing hajabs, the traditional Islamic head covering. She asked the audience what thoughts these images evoked. Most of the replies were that the hajab was a sign of the oppression of women. Ms. Numan then showed images of Mother Theresa and other nuns wearing head coverings and noted that this is traditional in all monotheistic religions including Judaism and Christianity, and it is seen as a sign of modesty, purity, and dedication to God. Ms. Numan explained that this is also true in Islam. Muslim women wear the hajab to show their religious devotion. She explained that wearing a head covering is a cultural norm in the Middle East. In some cultures the entire face is covered but this varies from region to region.

According to the Quran, women are completely equal to men in the sight of God. Muslim women have the right to education, to be supported (when married), kind treatment and independent ownership. Women are active members of Islamic society and serve in many capacities. Mohammed’s wife, Aisha, owned a business and even employed him at one time. The Prophet also referred followers to women doctors, trusting in their skills and abilities. After his death, Aisha had a large political following and led an army in the Battle of Camel.

At the end of the presentation there were many questions and comments concerning Islamic law and cultural traditions.

Ms. Numan will be teaching Arabic in the near future. If interested in learning more about this, you can e-mail her at: thana_numan@yahoo.com.

This presentation was arranged by Olive Tree Education, an Islamic outreach and education group based in middle Tennessee. More information on the organization may be found at http://www.olivetreeeducation.org/.