Definition and Meaning 📖
Zaynab Ghazali (1917-2005) was a pioneering Egyptian writer and advocate for women’s rights within an Islamic framework. She was notably linked to the Muslim Brotherhood, founded the Muslim Women’s Association (Jam’iyat al-Sayyidaat al-Muslimaat) as an Islamic counterpart to the Egyptian Feminist Union, and became an instrumental figure in the Brotherhood’s resurgence in the 1960s. Ghazali advocated for the active participation of women in public life while maintaining Islamic values and principles.
Etymology and Name Background 🌟
- Ghazali: A prominent surname in the Arab world, associated with intellectual and mystical traditions (like Al-Ghazali, the famous medieval Islamic theologian).
- Zaynab: An Arabic name derived from the name of a fragrant plant or flower, commonly imbued with notions of beauty and grace. Worn by many notable Muslim women, emphasizing historical resonance and reverence.
Historical Context & Cultural Impact 📜
- Education and Certification: Zaynab Ghazali was educated in traditional Islamic sciences, receiving certification in Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad), Quranic exegesis (tafsir), and preaching.
- Muslim Brotherhood: Although part of the Muslim Brotherhood, she maintained her independent activist stance, particularly on women’s issues.
- Muslim Women’s Association: Established in 1936, this organization clenched attention for addressing social and educational reform for women, rooted in an Islamic ideological framework.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms 🌏
- Synonyms: Islamic Feminist, Female Preacher, Activist.
- Antonyms: Secular Feminist, Secular Activist.
- Related Terms:
- Islamic Feminism: Advocacy for women’s rights within the contextual understanding of Islamic faith.
- Hadith: Reports describing the words, actions, and habits of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Quranic Exegesis (Tafsir): Interpretation and contextual explanation of the Quran.
Exciting Facts & Quotations 🗣️
- Ghazali regularly delivered lectures at historical sites like the Ibn Tulun Mosque in Cairo, which would draw immense crowds, reflecting public enthusiasm.
- Quotation: “Islamic societies must reclaim their grand history of women leading parallels with men in societal development while embracing their familial roles.”
- (Zaynab Ghazali, 1972)
Translations 🌐
- Arabic: زينب الغزالي
- Urdu: زینب غزالی
- Indonesian: Zainab Ghazali
- Persian: زینب غزالی
Suggested Literature and Sources 📚
- Books:
- “Return of the Pharaoh: Memoirs in Nasir’s Prison”
- “Beyond Veiling: Muslim Women in the Muslim Brotherhood” by Sara Abbas
- Articles:
- “Islamic Feminism in the Middle East: The Role of Zaynab Ghazali” in the Journal of Islamic Studies
- Online Resources:
- Preserving her legacy via organization websites such as the Muslim Women’s Association archive.
Until our paths cross again, may knowledge illuminate your way and wisdom guide your choices.
— Laila al-Mansour, 2023-10-03