Daughters of Abraham Feminist Thought in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

"Indispensable for those seeking to understand feminist theology. Jewish, Christian, and Muslim women share the historical reality of having been silent partners in their own traditions. By bringing their stories together, Daughters of Abraham suggests that they can forge a future characterized by mutual support based on a common bond."--Tamara Sonn, College of William and Mary

Important for a general audience interested in women and religion, this book will be especially valuable to scholars in the fields of feminist theology, comparative religion, and interfaith studies.

Based on the premise that women's struggles to have their voices heard are shared throughout the monotheisms, these essays offer new insights into the traditions of three religions during the past century. Six scholars engage in dialogue with their own faith communities, reflecting on their scripture and theology in order to understand the process by which women have been constrained within the patriarchal teachings of the religion. Looking at texts and narratives long utilized to keep women within boundaries, they open up the scriptures and traditions to a feminist interpretation of the historical teachings of their faiths.

CONTENTS

Women, Religion, and Empowerment, by John L. Esposito

1. Settling at Beer-lahai-roi, by Amy-Jill Levine

2. Hearing Hannah's Voice: The Jewish Feminist Challenge and Ritual Innovation, by Leila Gal Berner

3. The Influence of Feminism on Christianity, by Alice L. Laffey

4. Christian Feminist Theology: History and Future, by Rosemary Radford Ruether

5. Hagar: A Historical Model for "Gender Jihad," by Hibba Abugideiri

6. Rethinking Women and Islam, by Amira El-Azhary Sonbol

Yvonne Yazbeck Haddad is professor of history and of Islam and Christian-Muslim relations at Georgetown University. John L. Esposito is professor of religion and international affairs and professor of Islamic studies at Georgetown University.

Theology/Interfaith Studies/Women's Studies