Interpretasi Kontekstual Makna Qawwām Dalam Al-Qur’an QS. An-Nisa’ 34: Aplikasi Hermeneutika Abdullah Saeed

Abstract

The phrase "arrijalu qawwāmuna ‘ala an-nisa’" from the excerpt of Surah An-Nisa' verse 34 in classical and medieval exegesis has been used as a justification for depicting the superiority of male leadership, later known as patriarchal culture. This culture has led to the perception that women are incapable of assuming roles equal to men, both in the domestic and public spheres. In fact, this verse has been used as an argument by many to prevent women from becoming leaders. The aim of this research is to understand the meaning of "qawwām" in the interpretation of Surah An-Nisa' verse 34 and to explore the contextualization and value hierarchy of this verse in contemporary times. This study falls into the category of library research with a normative-historical approach. The analytical theory used is the contextual hermeneutics of Abdullah Saeed. The findings of this study reveal that the intended leadership of men over women as desired by the Qur'an is a leadership that signifies protection, care, authority, and fulfilling the needs of women. The value hierarchy based on this verse emphasizes justice in the form of equal opportunities for men and women to be leaders in both the domestic and public spheres. Therefore, it is clear that female leadership is not prohibited or even forbidden. Women can assume leadership roles in any field without being hindered by patriarchal culture. The substantive meaning derived from the application of this contextual hermeneutical method can be applied in different times and places, such as when understanding this verse in the current context of Indonesian society.

Keywords

• qawwām
• leadership
• interpretation
• contextual