News & Events

Shaykha Fest Celebrates Muslim Female Scholars and Activists

I always get excited when I hear about projects that use religion as a force for peace and understanding.  This Sunday’s Shaykha Fest, hosted by Al-Rawiya and held in New Jersey, is just such a project.  And if you don’t know about it – you should!!

From their website:
Did you know that some of the greatest Islamic scholars such as Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Imam Ibn al-Jawzi, Shaykh-ul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, Imam al-Dhahabi, Imam Ibn al-Qayyim, Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali and many other great Imams and scholars had female teachers?
 
Even though it is not widely known, thousands of female scholars have enriched the Islamic tradition throughout history. Shaykha Fest is intended to honor the legacy of female Islamic scholarship and draw attention to contemporary female scholars. At Shaykha Fest we will embark on an exciting journey into the past and learn from contemporary female scholars, thinkers and activists from around the world in a nurturing, non-cultural and inclusive atmosphere. Shaykha Fest in essence is a celebration of life, love and sisterhood.
There are female religious thinkers, scholars, and leaders in all traditions.   Al-Rawiya is doing its part by highlighting those from the Muslim tradition.  I can’t help but think how great it would be if if we all followed in its footsteps – and found ways to seek out similar female leaders and scholars from all faiths and non-faiths.
 
Joyce S. Dubensky
CEO