Marion Holmes Katz's richly textured book offers a broad historical survey of the rules, values and interpretations relating to Salat, the five daily prayers of Islam. This innovative study on the subject examines the different ways in which prayer has been understood in Islamic law, Sufi mysticism and Islamic philosophy.
The book delves into the foundational discussions surrounding ritual purity within Islamic law and its practical implications. It examines how these debates have shaped religious practices and legal interpretations, highlighting the evolution of concepts of purity in the Islamic tradition. Through an analytical lens, the work offers insights into the historical and theological contexts that influenced these critical discussions, making it a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of Islamic jurisprudence.
The book delves into the complex evolution of ritual purity in Islamic law, highlighting its significance in both traditional texts and everyday practices. By analyzing early sources, it reveals the dynamic debates among Muslim scholars influenced by legal theory, caliphal politics, and popular customs. Katz emphasizes that the diverse interpretations of ritual purity reflect a rich tapestry of thought rather than a singular understanding, showcasing the intricate interplay between scholarly discourse and lived experience in shaping this vital aspect of Islamic tradition.
Exploring the Mawlid, this book traces the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday from its historical origins to its modern significance. It offers valuable insights into contemporary Muslim devotional practices, highlighting the evolution and cultural impact of this important religious observance.
It is widely held today that classical Islamic law denies that wives have any obligation to do housework. Marion Holmes Katz offers a new account of debates on wives' domestic labor that recasts the historical relationship between Islamic law and ethics.
Juxtaposing Muslim scholars' debates over women's attendance in mosques with historical descriptions of women's activities within Middle Eastern and North African mosques, Marion Holmes Katz shows how over the centuries legal scholars' arguments have often reacted to rather than dictated Muslim women's behavior.