Muslim Women Voice Opinions on Spousal Abuse

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mwNews and Views
theVoice Video Talk Show
-- March 28, 2009
(right, Chapter 4, Verse 34, of the Holy Qur'an)

MANASSAS - The second uViews segment of "theVoice" video talk show held in a sprawling northern Virginia suburb was anything but ordinary. Five American Muslim women from diverse backgrounds gathered for a frank discussion on marriage, domestic violence, and spousal abuse. Interest in holding public discussions on spousal abuse has increased significantly since the death of Bridges TV executive Aasiya Zubair Hassan, allegedly murdered by her husband, Muzzamil Hassan, in February. 'Aqila Mujahid Al-Bayati, producer of the segment and CEO of the Association of Muslim Women in America, the organization sponsoring the program, developed the idea for the video discussions as a way to use technology to reach a wide audience on various topics of interest to Muslim women. "It's important for our opinions to be heard on topics that impact us, to change the perception that Muslim women are out of touch and unable to think and respond to issues which affect us", said Al-Bayati. "We need to create our own media that lets our voices be heard and that reflects our beliefs and values rather than letting others speak for us."

Key to the discussion was Chapter 4, Surah Al Nisaa ("The Women"), Verse 34, which describes men as the "protectors of women". The controversial english translation of this verse implies that a man may strike his wife as a way to resolve marital conflict. Different uses and translations of the arabic word duraba were central to the argument against striking the wife as a way to resolve conflict, citing the actual practices of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the fact that it was not part of his sunnah (daily practice and habits) to strike his wives or children.

After 30 minutes of lively discussion, the panel determined that the discussion should be continued in future segments to help women get a better understanding on the subject. Followup segments are planned for the near future.