AN ANALYSIS OF GENDER ROLES AND RELATIONS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ISLAM

Nasir Muhammad Abdulhameed

Department of Religion and Philosophy

University of Jos, Jos Nigeria

Email: abdulhameedm@unijos.edu.ng / nmuham48@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Functionalist theory of sex roles differences was the applied method of explaining gender roles and relations. The emergence of feminist movements in the 1970s, brought about new ideas about gender and genders issues. Thus, gender refers to socially assigned roles of males and females. Gender roles show people’s function and capabilities, and gender relations reflect the interactions taking place between individuals through a process that differentiates and stratifies people. This paper analyzes gender roles and relations on the basis of the principles of Islam on gender. It draws data from primary and secondary sources, and employs the theoretical method in analyzing them. The findings show that there are similarities between Islamic principles on gender roles and relations and the functionalist theory of sex roles differences. Like other cultures, Islam prescribes roles for males and females, and provides guidelines for their relations. It does not bar women from acquiring knowledge, pursuing of lawful economic ventures, or occupying administrative positions. Islam rejects cultural practices that inhibit women development and subject them to unfair treatments, including denial of rights. However, the influence of radical feminism on some Muslim women resulted in misplacing the teachings of Islam on gender issues. Thus, the prescriptions of Islam on gender roles and relations do not subordinate women, or hinder their development. But this can best be understood, if gender issues are analyzed on the basis of Islamic norms and principles, and within the context of the Muslim society.

Keywords: Islamic Principles, Gender, Roles, Relations, Socio-Economic