Interpreted in more patriarchal times, translations reflect a linguistic bias not found in the original texts, and events which could be described in non-sexist ways were given sexist interpretations. For instance, Lalani says that woman is often portrayed as created out of man, leading early interpreters to assert women are inferior and subordinate. Cultural expressions of texts are being challenged in other faiths as well. Such subordination has limited Muslim women's participation in and contribution to political activity. For instance, while the Qur'an states only that women should dress modestly, veiling was the response when early contact was made with outside societies centuries ago.
Questions remain about marital and legal practice.
Many women are married before puberty, and divorce is easier for men. Women's inheritance is limited to half that of a man. In court, a man's testimony is equal to that of two women. Orthodox Jewish women are legally prevented from questioning a legal system created and continuously defined by men, Lalani writes. They are also precluded from leadership positions.