Definition & Meaning
Shafiq, Durriyah (also known as Doria Shafiq) (d. 1976 CE) was a pioneering Egyptian feminist, scholar, teacher, journalist, and activist. Recognized for her substantial contributions towards female literacy and the advocacy of full political rights for women, Shafiq was a formidable force in the fight against gender inequality in a conservative Egyptian society. She firmly believed that Islam advocates for the equality of women, arguing against the necessity for veils and domestic confinement.
Etymology & Background
The name Durriyah (Arabic: درية) stems from the Arabic root “د-ر-ي” which connotes something glowing, radiant, or luminescent. Shafiq (Arabic: شفيق) comes from the root “ش-ف-ق” which means compassionate or merciful. Together, the name embodies the spirit of benevolence and illumination, hallmark qualities of Shafiq’s personality and mission.
Historical Facts & Dates
- 1921: Born on December 14 in Tanta, Egypt.
- 1940: Completed her Ph.D. in philosophy from Sorbonne University.
- 1948: Founded the Bint Al-Nil Union, focusing on women’s issues including education and political rights.
- 1951: Led a historic women’s sit-in at the Egyptian Parliament demanding women’s suffrage and equality, a seminal moment in Egyptian feminist history.
- 1956: Egypt’s new constitution granted women the right to vote.
- 1957: Placed under house arrest due to vocal opposition against Gamal Abdel Nasser’s regime.
- 1976: Passed away on September 30 under tragic circumstances.
Cultural Differences & Similarities
In the context of her activism, Durriyah Shafiq’s efforts elucidated broader cultural disparities and congruencies within the Muslim world:
- Similarities: Common across many Muslim-majority nations was the debate on the role and rights of women in both public and private spheres, where activists like Shafiq drew from Islamic doctrines to advocate for equality.
- Differences: Societies varied in their acceptance and interpretation of modernity and traditionalism. Shafiq’s activism stood out within the Egyptian context, notable for being more direct in addressing governmental policies.
Synonyms & Antonyms
- Synonyms: Feminist pioneer, equal rights activist, suffragist, literacy advocate.
- Antonyms: Traditionalist, gender conservative, anti-suffragist, reactionary.
Related Terms
- Feminism: Advocate for women’s rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men.
- Suffrage: The right to vote in political elections.
- Domesticity: Home or family life; often referred to women’s confinement to household roles.
- Islamic Feminism: A feminist discourse and practice articulated within an Islamic paradigm.
Exciting Facts
- International Education: Shafiq was among the few Egyptian women to attend the Sorbonne University in Paris during the 1940s.
- Literary Contribution: She was a prolific writer and founded “Bint Al-Nil,” a magazine aimed at educating and empowering Egyptian women.
- Parliamentary Impact: Her march into Parliament eventually led to the inclusion of women’s suffrage in the Egyptian constitution.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Shafiq was not just a feminist but a visionary who could foresee an Egypt where women would be equal partners in nation-building.” — Layla Ahmed, Professor of Divinity at Harvard University.
“Her name deserves to be written in golden letters in the annals of history for her unprecedented contributions to women’s rights in the Muslim world.” — Fatema Mernissi, Moroccan feminist writer and sociologist.
Suggested Literature & Sources
- Doria Shafiq: Egyptian Feminist – A Woman Ahead of Her Time by Karla Z. Haney
- Women and Gender in Islam by Leila Ahmed
- Revolutionary Women Compiled by Saadawi Nawal
Thought-Provoking Farewell
In contemplating Durriyah Shafiq’s legacy, let us remember that the fight for equality requires relentless courage and enduring faith. As we strive towards a more just world, her life remains a beacon of inspiration and resolute determination.
