262
Revisiting 'religion' from a Gender Perspective
Abstract Submissions Closed
RC22 Sociology of Religion (host committee)
Language: English
Session Type: Oral
Institutional religions, through resorting to the sacred texts and utilizing a series of theological dualisms and ideological expectations, persistently sanction a culture of male domination and female subordination. The institution of marriage is one of the important domains within which gender inequalities are created. Within this institution, sexuality acts as a key mechanism of patriarchy. The practice of polygyny takes place in different communities and among different religions that create gender injustice and male superiority in the domain of sexuality and conjugal relationships. Under the religious marital laws, men are allowed to practice polygyny as God-given right. Within Muslim tradition, for instance, literal and selective readings and the male-oriented interpretations of religious texts have paved the way to the endorsed patriarchal modes of gender relations. The conservative understanding of polygyny often leads to the silencing, disadvantaging and disempowering of women and children.
The advancements in critical theology, since the mid-20th century, however, have advocated the liberation and emancipatory function of religion in the lives of people. This session will provide a platform to examine the theological basis for gender justice based on Qur’anic understanding from gender perspective as well as practical achievements. Through a paradigm shift by including gender as a vital category of analysis of religious texts, it is possible to advocate for a monogamous and egalitarian conjugal relationship and to curtail unconditional right of men to polygamous marriages.