Definition
Azizah al-Hibri (b. 1943) is a prominent Muslim professor specializing in corporate law and Islamic jurisprudence, a former Wall Street lawyer, and an influential activist. She is the founder of KARAMAH: Muslim Women Lawyers for Human Rights and the founding editor of Hypatia: A Journal of Feminist Philosophy. Her work navigates the intersections of faith, gender, and law, contributing significantly to fields such as Islamic constitutionalism, women’s rights, and interfaith dialogue.
Early Life and Education
Azizah al-Hibri was born in 1943. She received her doctorate and law degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, leveraging her academic foundation to address complex issues at the intersection of Western legal systems and Islamic jurisprudence.
Professional Contributions
Having transitioned from a philosophy professor and Wall Street lawyer, Azizah al-Hibri established herself as a thought leader in Islamic law and human rights. Her broad activism includes significant contributions to civil rights, interfaith dialogue, and the prevention of family and gender-based violence. Among her many achievements:
- KARAMAH: Founded in 1993, KARAMAH advocates for human rights within Islamic familial and personal law contexts, focusing on empowering Muslim women.
- Hypatia: Al-Hibri was the founding editor of this significant journal in feminist philosophy, advancing discourse on gender, feminism, and ethics.
Scholarly Works
Azizah al-Hibri has authored numerous articles and books on key topics such as Islamic law, women in Islam, and democracy. She frequently speaks internationally, raising awareness and promoting dialogue on the global stage.
Notable Topics
- Islamic Constitutionalism and Democracy: Analyzes the frameworks and principles of governance in relation to Islamic values and modern democratic norms.
- Muslims in the United States: Explores the challenges and dynamics faced by Muslim communities in North America.
- International Law: Examines the interplay between Islamic legal principles and contemporary international laws, advocating for a harmonious coexistence.
Activism
Al-Hibri’s activism is diverse. She works diligently to reform Muslim personal status laws, ensuring they align with both Islamic principles and contemporary human rights standards. Her efforts in civil rights, family and gender violence prevention, and public policy ethics exemplify her commitment to justice and equity.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: عزيزة الحُبريّ
- Turkish: Azizah-el Hibrî
Further Reading and Resources
For those interested in delving deeper into Azizah al-Hibri’s work and contributions, the following books and articles are recommended:
- “Muslim Women’s Rights in the Global Village: Challenges and Opportunities” by Azizah al-Hibri
- “Islamic Jurisprudence and Modern Contexts” edited by Azizah al-Hibri
- “Gender and Equality in Muslim Family Law” by Lena Larsen and Ziba Mir-Hosseini, which includes contributions by Azizah al-Hibri
Key Takeaways
- Azizah al-Hibri is a significant figure in the fields of Islamic law, feminist philosophy, and human rights.
- Her work bridges Islamic jurisprudence and contemporary legal systems, advocating for reforms that align with human rights principles.
- Al-Hibri’s activism provides a crucial intersectional perspective, focusing on gender, religion, and law within both domestic and international contexts.
Conclusion
Azizah al-Hibri’s multifaceted contributions to law, philosophy, and human rights make her a key figure in contemporary Islamic and feminist discourse. Her scholarly and activist efforts continue to inspire and challenge traditional narratives, paving the way for more inclusive and equitable interpretations of Islamic principles in modern society.
