The article contributed by Amira Sonbol is devoted to shari‘a court records and Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) as sources for women’s history. Using the issue of sexuality in Islamic sources as a starting point, she shows how studies on this matter stimulate even further studies which, in turn, are leading to a greater understanding of the impact of states and modernity on women’s lives, as well as revealing new tools to challenge state control over gender issues and women. Secondly, she illustrates how to use a wide range of sources for historical research beyond the mainstream. Shari‘a court records and fatwas are often examined to discuss legal issues. In this respect, however, Sonbol attempts to expand their use and demonstrate how they may be valuable in uncovering various aspects of women’s lives and gender relations. Throughout her article, we are also able to follow the author’s own evolution across time as a scholar and activist working for women’s rights.
Court records, shari‘a, fiqh, Egypt, fatwas, women’s history, women’s rights, sexuality.