The Rights of Women in the Three Abrahamic Religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam: A Comparative Study

Abstract

This research is analyzing the marriage practices conducted in Zanzibar, a part of Tanzania. Zanzibar's population is estimated to be around 1,303,569 people. Muslims make up an estimated 95% of the population, while other religions share the tiny remaining percentage. The study seeks to analyze the marriage practices in the two islands and the conformity with Sharia law. The research will examine the marriage laws in Zanzibar and marriage practices based on the Quran and Prophetic traditions (Sunna). The research aims to find the degree of conformity and deviance of marriage practices from Sharia law and the effect of media and modernization on marriage practices.

The research will investigate the awareness of the public on Islamic Sharia and their understanding of how to conduct marriage and the true Sharia requirements. Hence, this research will propose what should be done for the Muslims in these islands to adhere to the true teachings of Islam. Questions will be set to investigate the awareness of the public about women prohibited to marry, the allowed and prohibited things in marriage ceremonies, as well as public awareness about the rights of marriage partners. The research will study public knowledge about sexual practices allowed in Islam and those prohibited. The research will conclude with the degree of conformity of Zanzibar society in marriage practices with Sharia requirements, and it will provide possible recommendations.