Summary:
World news article published by ABC, Feb. 4, 2015, "Why Muslim Woman Started 1st All-Female Mosque in the US" talks about the Women's Mosque of America in downtown Los Angeles. This nontraditional place of worship was not lead by a male imam, but women gave the prayer and sermon. The founder, M. Hasna Mazvai talked about the all of the support the mosque gained and all of their supporting members. They are trying to encourage faith strengthening sermons to those of multiple religions by hosting a Jummu'ah once a month. This is a type of prayer for worship specifically held on a Friday. The Womens Mosque of America is actively expanding its spaces to as many people as possible.
Analysis:
I think the first women's mosque is an encouraging example for women's rights to be leaders. This is a bold and courageous step on behalf of the Muslims; should be respected. Controversy was raised by some Muslims not excepting change, but the Koran and the Prophet Muhammad never said that women are supposed to be separated. Not only is it important to make the first step of creating a women's only mosque, but it is crucial to inform others about it. This article defeated its purpose of notifying the uninformed about the first women's mosque, and it helps progress the future of women role in worship.
Discussion Questions:
1. How could the Women's Mosque of America influence-- not just the Muslim community-- but other religions and nondenominational faiths?
2. Is it important to go forward with change regarding women's role as leaders? How it could potentially be harmful to make this change compared to how it benefits society.
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ReplyDeleteI feel like this could really have a positive impact on not only the Muslim community but other religions as well. An example of this would be how there are women who would like to be Priestesses. However, it is not accepted in traditional Catholic churches. This movement might start a chain reaction of letting both genders play a leading role in the worship place for different religions.
ReplyDeleteThe Women's Mosque of America is a bold step for women and should be noticed by other communities and cultures. Making a all women mosque creates more focus on parts of the religion that deal with women. This change will make women stronger and more firm about their belief. The only potentially harmful thing I can point out is that they may face some financial problems due to lack of donations and attendance as compared to a traditional mosque.
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