Muslim Women: Past and Present

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Throughout the ages, from the earliest days of Islam to contemporary times today, Muslim women have been and continue to be active leaders in their communities and countries across the world. This directory is a growing archive of leading Muslim women scholars, activists, writers, politicians, artists, religious and spiritual leaders, civil society leaders and more. Please contribute to this archive by suggesting Muslim women to be featured through our recommendation form.

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Safiye Sultan

With the authority she enjoys as mother of the prince, she intervenes on occasion in affairs of state, although she is much respected in this, and is listened to by His Majesty, who considers her sensible and wise

Giovanni Maro, 1590

Known For: Advisor and Valide Sultan of the Ottoman Empire
Dates: 957-1028 Hijri
1550-1619 CE

Country: Turkey

About

Born Sofia Baffo, Safiye Sultan was of Venetian descent. She was the daughter of the Governor of Corfu, who had been abducted by corsairs and sold to the Ottoman harem in her youth. She became the chief wife of the Sultan Murad III after over ten years of living in the harem, and was the mother of the future Sultan Mehmed III.

Safiye Sultan was known for her public presence in state politics. She was also an important advisor in matters of governance to both Murad III and Mehmed III. While she was able to increase her son’s patronage of the army, she also competed with other counselors, such as viziers, the mufti, eunuchs, and other favorites.

Safiye Sultan also exchanged gifts with Queen Elizabeth I, including jewels, robes, and a carriage, in which Safiye would travel through the city, much to the scandal of the court.

According to public perception, Safiye’s interference was excessive. That she unduly promoted her interests caused her unpopularity, with people believing she had extended her reach beyond the bounds of the valide sultan. She was also seen as openly favoring Venetian interests.

Safiye, from whom the rest of the Ottoman sultans descended, also began the construction of the Yeni Valide Mosque in Istanbul in 1598, which would later be finished by Turhan Hatice. The Al-Malika Safiyya Mosque in Cairo was named in her honor.

Sources

“The Ottoman Harem.”

Peirce, L. (1993). The Imperial Harem: Women and Sovereignty in the Ottoman Empire. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

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This search feature will enable you to find Muslim women leaders by entering the keyword(s) of your choice. If you cannot find a particular woman that you are looking for, please let us know by completing our “Recommend Muslim Women” form and check the site again in the near future as we actively expand this section of the portal with your suggestions.