Networking Humanity: Women, Piety and Philanthropy

Abstract

In the discussion of Muslim philanthropy, women are often portrayed chiefly as the beneficiaries, not as the principal agents, of philanthropic activities. Yet, throughout much of Islamic history, a number of Muslim women had contributed to diverse philanthropic sectors. This article focuses on one of Indonesia's most important Indonesian female philanthropists, who has been prominent in the flow of charitable assistance - in this case, not from the Middle East to Southeast Asia but in the opposite direction. It demonstrates the vital role of women not only as benefactors and volunteers but also as the leaders and initiators of diverse transnational philanthropic activities.