In this course, we examine what the Qur’an says about “woman” and we consider both classical and contemporary exegetical approaches to Quranic interpretation. We explore Quranic portrayals of women, sex, sexuality, and gender relations and how they have been understood in diverse communities of Muslim interpretation. Furthermore, we come to understand the basis for differing interpretations of Qur’anic verses concerning women, gender relations, marriage and the family. This course aims to familiarize students with the key contemporary Quranic debates on woman/women and as such provides essential background to those pursuing scholarship, religious leadership, or chaplaincy.

Course fulfills the following curricular requirements:
MAC – Islamic Chaplaincy Elective
MAIRS – Islamic Studies: Beliefs and Practices