📖 The Management of a Wife: Cultural and Philosophical Perspectives in Islam
Etymology and Definition
Dignity: Derived from the Latin “dignitas,” signifying worthiness and respect, dignity in the context of a marital relationship implies preserving one’s respect and honor without causing humiliation to the partner.
Complaisance: This term, deriving from the French “complaire,” means displaying a disposition to please or fulfill the needs of another, showcasing the balance between supporting and guiding a spouse.
Polygamy: From the Greek words “polys” (many) and “gamos” (marriage), polygamy signifies the custom where a man has multiple wives.
Background and Evolution
The exploration of management concerning a wife reflects deep cultural roots embedded in religious and philosophical teachings, intersecting with societal expectations. In classical Islamic thought, as highlighted in texts like the Akhlaq-i-Jalali and observations documented from various Islamic societies, the management of marital relationships weaves a complex tapestry of expectations, duties, and etiquette.
The text, [000-As regards the Management of a Wife…], reflects these classical perspectives, listing traits to be maintained and avoided both for husbands and wives. Over two principal parts—it delineates the balance of dignity and complaisance for husbands and the expectations and behavioral decorum for wives.
Cultural Differences and Similarities: Classical Islamic guidance varies significantly across cultural traditions:
- Arab Cultural Context: Emphasizes family honor, lineage, and social order.
- Persian Cultural Insights: Offers elaborate and sometimes satirical views on managing marital relationships through works like Kitábi Kulsúm Naneh.
Synonyms and Antonyms:
- Synonyms for Dignity: Respect, Honor, Grace
- Antonyms for Excessive Affection: Indifference, Neglect
Related Terms:
- Harim (حريم): This refers to inviolable domestic space, usually restricting the movement of women in traditional societies.
- Nikah (نكاح): The contract of marriage in Islam which outlines the rights and obligations of both partners.
- Shura (شورى): Consultation within a marriage, aiding mutual decision-making.
Exciting Facts and Anecdotal Insights
Polygamy, although accepted within Islamic framework, in practical performance, often complies with cultural, economic, and ethical constraints. The famous sociologist Ibn Khaldun notes, “The survival of civilization depends on social solidarity and foes bonded in marriage remain the strongholds for it.”
Quotations
“The refuge of Revelation (Muḥammad) declared that if the worship of one created thing could be permitted to another, he would have enjoined the worship of husbands.”
Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Studies
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Books:
- “The Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam” by Yusuf al-Qaradawi
- “The Ethics of Islam” by Yusuf Bey
- “Marriage and Morals in Islam” by Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi
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Academic Articles:
- “Marital Relations in Islamic Law and Practice” - Comparative Studies Journal
- “Gender Roles in Classical Islamic Jurisprudence” - Journal of Islamic Studies
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Classical Texts:
- Ihya’ Ulum al-Din by Al-Ghazali
- The Muqaddimah by Ibn Khaldun
Quizzes (with Explanations)
Inspirational Thought: “Understanding the depths of marital duties and mutual respect in Islam prevails as a source of harmony and ethical coherence in societal structures.” – Leila Asif
Date: 2023-10-05
Faithfully exploring cultural richness and ethical paradigms, Leila Asif
