The Socioeconomic Sphere of Muslim Women: A Critical Study on John l. Esposito's Views

Abstract

John L. Esposito categorized the status of Muslim women into two spheres; Ethico religious and socioeconomic. In religious ethic men and women are equal but in socioeconomic sphere rights of women are affected in three fields i.e priority of male over female, right of divorce and polygamy. He described that man’s priority over women is due to his responsibilities of expenditure on women. As now in 21st century women are educated and participating in different fields of life so they are earning money. In this context men’s priority over women is subject to change. But priority of man over woman is not only based on physical maintenance of household but also due to the difference in physical structure and mental approach between the two genders. These are main factors behind this priority syndrome which are well documented in the Holy Qur’an which is not subject to change. In the matters of divorce and polygamy he recommended some legal reforms which already exist in many Muslim countries as in the case of divorce men and women have equal rights. He suggested that man’s right of extra judicial divorce should be banned. Both husband and wife should appear before court for divorce. Polygamy is already permissioned with the conditions of equal justice in finances as well as love and affection. But he recommends that if a married man wants to take another wife he should appear before a court to justify his position and make a pledge to treat all his life partners equally.