To equate or to leave it different? (Reading gender interpretations in Islamic texts) by Amien, Saiful

“…An-Nisa’: 34].Regarding the creation of women, as represented by the case of Eve, it is part of Muslims’ belief that Eve was created from Adam’s rib.This type of interpretation has long been developed in Islamic tradition.However, this kind of interpretation is totally rejected by Riffat Hassan on the basis that this interpretation could spread misogynistic tendency (hatred of women) and that there is no clear text in the Qur’an which implies such a conclusion.The Qur’an, Hassan posits, only mentions the word "nafs wahidah" (one soul) and "zawjaha" (partner).Therefore, according to Riffat, it is not true if "nafs wahidah" is automatically understood as Adam and "zawjaha" as Eve.Although, many exegetes during this time using Hadith to interpret these two words, Riffat’s study shows that the validity of sanad (transmission lines) and matan (content) of the Hadith was doubtful.In addition to relatively dhoif (weak) transmitters, its contents also bertray the principles of justice and equality prevailed in Islam.In contrast, Sachiko Murata agrees with the interpretation that has evolved. …”
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