Thematic Exegesis (Tafsir Mawdu'i) and Gender Equality: Re-Reading Quranic Verses on Domestic Relations in the 21st Century

Abstract

This article explores the relevance of thematic exegesis (tafsir mawḍū‘ī) in reconstructing the understanding of Qur’anic verses concerning domestic relations and gender equality in the twenty-first century. Traditional interpretations of certain Qur’anic texts related to marital leadership, division of roles, and family authority have often been influenced by patriarchal socio-cultural contexts, resulting in gender-biased perspectives. Using a qualitative library research approach, this study applies the thematic exegesis method to analyze and synthesize relevant Qur’anic verses on husband-wife relations, mutual rights and obligations, justice, partnership, and family harmony. The findings reveal that the Qur’an promotes principles of equality, mutual respect, cooperation, and shared responsibility between men and women within the family. Rather than establishing hierarchical domination, the Qur’anic framework emphasizes complementary roles grounded in justice (‘adl), compassion (raḥmah), and mutual consultation (shūrā). Furthermore, a contextual rereading of these verses demonstrates that gender equality is not contradictory to Islamic teachings but is deeply rooted in the ethical objectives (maqāṣid) of the Qur’an. This study contributes to contemporary Qur’anic scholarship by offering a contextual and holistic interpretation that responds to modern social realities while maintaining fidelity to the Qur’an’s normative values. The thematic exegesis approach thus serves as an effective methodological tool for promoting a more equitable understanding of domestic relations in contemporary Muslim societies.