Islam Quote by Anonymous
“A British man came to Sheikh and asked: Why is it not permissible in Islam for women to shake hands with a man? The Sheikh said: Can you shake hands with Queen Elizabeth? British man said: Of course no, there are only certain people who can shake hands with Queen Elizabeth. Sheikh replied: Our women are queens and queens do not shake hands with strange men. Then the British man asked the Sheikh: Why do your girls cover up their body and hair? The Sheikh smiled and got two sweets, he opened the first one and kept the other one closed. He threw them both on the dusty floor and asked the British: If I ask you to take one of the sweets which one will you choose? The British replied: The covered one. The Sheikh said: That's how we treat and see our woman. Sharing is Loving”
About This Quote
Source Anecdote: Unnamed Dialogue, unknown source
The story uses a metaphor of sweets to illustrate how women are treated as untouchable and idealized, emphasizing separation and control.
In simple terms: Women are treated as distant, untouchable objects.
Recognize and challenge dehumanizing cultural norms.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- intercultural dialogue
- gender relations
- education
- policy making
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does metaphor shape our view of gender?
- What alternatives exist for respectful interaction?
The analogy oversimplifies complex religious practices and may reinforce stereotypes.