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Misconception of Gender Roles in Islam

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Misconception of Gender Roles in Islam
Misconception of gender roles occur in everyday aspect of life and religion is no exception to this case. Especially in the religion of Islam, current debates occur over gender roles. Although this monotheistic religion has been around for centuries, it wasn’t long ago that it became so prevalent in main stream media; especially since the occurrence of 9/11. As much as this religion is celebrated, it is also highly scrutinized for the preconception of the role of man and woman. This is all based upon the interpretations by Non-Muslims and Muslims alike, due to the fact that cultural biases conflict with actual teachings of Islam. Negative connotations have been made in regards to how women do not receive equal treatment and how men are treated like kings. Though many claim that Islam has misogynistic view points, this religion in fact has high importance of women. It's the truth that has to be reexamined to get Americans to reconsider their perception of Muslim women and their important roles in Islam.
To understand this debate over women’s role in Islam, one has to understand the religion itself. The actual meaning of the word “Islam” according to Encyclopedia Britannica is an Arabic word that means submission to God. Specifically it is the act of compliance to one single God, which is why it is a monotheistic religion. This religion is carried out by their holy book called the “Qur’an”. The main objective of this religion is to live a full life through the teachings of Qur’an, rid one’s self of negative attributes such as Ego that pollutes the mind. This religion is meant to be practiced on a continual basis and that is why it incorporates domestic issues such as, how to dress, personal hygiene, what to eat, and civil issues such as marriage and divorce. Islam has survived through many centuries and remains to be the fastest growing religion in America to date. According to Time Magazine, by 2030 the global population is set to reach over 8 billion

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