👩🦳 Understanding Widows (ارملة Armalah) in Islamic Law
The term “widow” in Arabic is “ارملة” (armalah). Understanding its context in Islamic law involves exploring the mourning period, inheritance rights, remarriage regulations, and the comparison of these practices with those in other traditions. This detailed lexicon entry will explore these aspects to provide a comprehensive understanding of the status of widows in an Islamic framework.
1. Definition and Etymology
Widows (ارملة armalah): A woman whose spouse has passed away. The term “ارملة” (armalah) originates from classical Arabic, denoting a woman in a state of widowhood.
The Hebrew equivalent is “אַלְמָנָה” (almānāh). In several cultural contexts, including Islamic, Hindu, and even earlier Judeo-Christian traditions, the role of widows has been significantly defined by social and religious norms
Key Concepts:
- Iddah (Waiting Period): A widow’s period of mourning and waiting, typically lasting “four months and ten days” (Qur’an 2:234). During this time, the widow abstains from remarriage and other significant social activities to respect her husband’s death.
2. Inheritance Rights
In Islamic inheritance law, a widow’s share varies based on the presence of children:
If there are children:
- She inherits one-eighth of her late husband’s property.
If there are no children:
- She inherits one-fourth of her late husband’s property.
For multiple wives:
- This share is divided equally among them, whether it’s the one-fourth or one-eighth share.
3. Remarriage Regulations
After completing her “Iddah” period, there are specific rules for a widow’s remarriage:
- Not Pregnant with Previous Husband’s Child: She is free to remarry following her “Iddah” period.
- Conversion and Declaration of Faith: Conversions to Islam and their impact on inheritance can be contentious, as often the testimony of heirs may overrule a widow’s claim.
4. Cultural and Regional Variations
Islamic practices concerning widows can vary culturally and regionally:
- Islamic Countries: Strict adherence to Shariah rules and local interpretations.
- Non-Islamic Countries: Balancing between local laws and religious beliefs.
5. Exciting Facts
- Widows in many societies, both Islamic and non-Islamic, have historically faced various challenges, including social ostracization, financial dependence, and limitations on remarriage.
- Some modern Islamic scholars advocate for reinterpreting ancient laws in ways that better reflect contemporary values and the rights of women.
6. Quotations from Notable Writers
- Fatima Mernissi: “The Islamic law of inheritance grants the widow certain protective rights, yet it’s the cultural enforcement and interpretation of these rights that determine her true socio-economic status.”
- Karen Armstrong (on Islamic heritage): “Practical charity and protection to the vulnerable, like widows and orphans, lie at the heart of Islamic ethos.”
7. Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Studies
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Books:
- “The Rights of Women in Islam” by Asghar Ali Engineer
- “Women and Gender in Islam: Historical Roots of a Modern Debate” by Leila Ahmed
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Articles:
- “Inheritance Laws and Gender Justice in Islamic Jurisprudence” by Ayesha Jalal
- “Widows and the Social Support System in Muslim Societies” by Fareeda Al Yousuf
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Reference Works:
- “Hamilton’s Hidāyah” (Translation)
- “Baillie’s Law of Inheritance”
- “Grady’s Hidāyah”
Summary
Understanding the place of widows in Islamic law involves examining historical texts, contemporary applications, cultural nuances, and comparing these frameworks with other religious traditions.
Inspirational Thought: “Understanding widows’ rights in Islamic law is integral to grasping broader social justice themes, highlighting not just the letter of the law but its compassionate essence embedded in Islamic teachings.”
Farewell: Thank you for delving into this critical aspect of Islamic jurisprudence. May we continue to seek knowledge with a compassionate heart and an open mind.
Publishing Date: 2023-10-04 Author: Maryam ibn Al-Mustafa
