Has Women's Involvement In Islam (particularly Sufism) Been Overlooked In Historical Accounts?

The concern that the breadth of women's religious practice in Islam is not fully expressed by some scholars is well-founded. The strong involvement of women in Sufi practice is documented in the book 'The Female Voice in Sufi Ritual by S. Abbas. For example, in a vivid description of the 'urs' celebrations, Abbas writes that Sehwan is 'flooded with large numbers of female musicians where they perform in every nook and cranny and attract huge audiences'. The view that women commonly participate in Sufi practice is also expressed by other writers. As well, evidence is found in Sufi shrines throughout the world where women worship. For example, in the Hazrat Nizamuddin Shrine in Delhi, women, men and children take part in the feast to break sawm and enjoy devotional music. Women have long been an integral part Sufism and their role has been overlooked in many historical accounts.