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.
### Who was Zaynab Ghazali?
- [x] A prominent Egyptian writer and advocate for women's rights within the Muslim Brotherhood.
- [ ] A secular feminist opposing Islamic attire.
- [ ] A modern-day fictional character in Middle Eastern literature.
- [ ] A pre-Islamic Arab poet.
> **Explanation:** Zaynab Ghazali (1917-2005) was an instrumental figure within the Muslim Brotherhood who advocated for women's active participation in society while adhering to Islamic principles.
### What organization did Ghazali found?
- [x] Muslim Women’s Association
- [ ] Women's Rights Network
- [ ] Feminist Union of Egypt
- [ ] League of Arab Women
> **Explanation:** Ghazali founded the Muslim Women’s Association as an Islamic counterpart to the Egyptian Feminist Union.
### When was Zaynab Ghazali imprisoned?
- [x] 1965–71
- [ ] 1950–55
- [ ] 1975–80
- [ ] 1940–45
> **Explanation:** Ghazali was imprisoned from 1965 to 1971 due to her political involvement and activities within the Muslim Brotherhood.
### Which mosque in Cairo did Ghazali deliver lectures that attracted thousands?
- [x] Ibn Tulun Mosque
- [ ] Al-Azhar Mosque
- [ ] Sayyeda Zainab Mosque
- [ ] Al-Hakim Mosque
> **Explanation:** Ghazali delivered weekly lectures to crowds of up to five thousand women at the Ibn Tulun Mosque in Cairo.
### In which decade was the Muslim Women’s Association established?
- [x] 1930s
- [ ] 1940s
- [ ] 1950s
- [ ] 1920s
> **Explanation:** The Muslim Women’s Association was founded by Ghazali in the 1930s (1936 specifically).
### What did Ghazali proclaim regarding women's roles in public life?
- [x] Women can be active in public life within an Islamic framework, without neglecting their familial duties.
- [ ] Women should separate entirely from public responsibilities and focus solely on family.
- [ ] Women must adopt secular forms of rights movements for progress.
- [ ] Traditional roles are severely restrictive without room for public engagement.
> **Explanation:** Ghazali advocated that women could engage in all aspects of public life as long as it aligned with Islamic principles and did not distract them from their duties as wives and mothers.
### Translate the name "Zaynab Ghazali" into Arabic.
- [x] زينب الغزالي
- [ ] مجلة زينبو الصحافية
- [ ] زينب الفارس
- [ ] فاطمة زينب
> **Explanation:** The correct transcription of Zaynab Ghazali in Arabic is زينب الغزالي.
### What controversial topic did Ghazali notably condemn?
- [x] Tactics of murder, torture, and terrorism.
- [ ] The wearing of the Hijab.
- [ ] The use of non-Arabic languages in Islamic teachings.
- [ ] The concept of secularism in government.
> **Explanation:** Ghazali was vocal in condemning tactics of murder, torture, and terrorism, emphasizing a peaceful and respectful approach within Islamic and social activism.
Until our paths cross again, may knowledge illuminate your way and wisdom guide your choices.
— Laila al-Mansour, 2023-10-03
