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| Abstract (pages iii-iv) |
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As Muslim communities integrate into mainstream American society, one must
examine how the dynamics at work in American society will absorb this youngest
of the Abrahamic traditions. Muslims retain their separate identity by adhering to
the fundamental tenets of Islam but have a clear tendency to fit within the local
dominant non-Muslim socio-cultural system. As a diverse and growing population,
American Muslims currently face many of the same problems confronting other
communities and faith groups. In particular some American Muslim wives face
serious domestic problems and discrimination from members of the community,
who lack knowledge about the true teachings in the Qur’ân and the Sunnah.
Conflicts in the areas of marriage, divorce, and custody of children occur
inevitably.
At present, Islamic organizations, mosques, and centers have jurisdiction over
Islamic matters. Each of these organizations may react differently to these
conflicts, create tensions among themselves, and become a source of confusion
for Muslims. At the same time, the state’s involvement in matters that were, and
for many still are, religious issues raises difficult legal problems as well as other
issues concerning the relationship between religion and the state in America.
Thus the need for a thorough study presses more urgently today than at any
other time, and an attempt to resolve these obstacles will enable Muslims to
contribute more effectively to the American cultural landscape.
I propose five solutions for the unique problems of Muslims in America: (1)
educational outreach to Muslims; (2) pre-marital counseling; (3) a parenting plan
for interfaith couples; (4) the prenuptial agreement; and (5) the establishment of
Sharî‘ah courts which would manage the family affairs of American Muslims and
mediate their religious affairs within the scope of American law.
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