PEMETAAN HISTORIS TAFSIR AYAT WARIS HAK LAKI-LAKI DAN PEREMPUAN: DARI TAFSIR KLASIK HINGGA TAFSIR MODERN

Abstract

This paper examines the historical development of interpretations of the inheritance verse in Surah al-Nisâ’ verse 11, with a focus on the 2:1 inheritance ratio between men and women. The study is conducted qualitatively using a literature review approach, mapping the methods and perspectives of classical exegetes such as al-Ṭabarî, al-Râzî, and Ibn Kathîr, who tend to be textual and normative, as well as modern exegetes like Muhammad Shahrur, Fazlur Rahman, and Munawir Sjadzali, who offer contextual and socially responsive interpretations. Qur’anic interpretation plays a significant role in shaping Islamic law, including in the matter of inheritance distribution between men and women. Classical scholars generally interpret the inheritance verses literally and normatively, producing fixed laws that are not open to reinterpretation. In contrast, modern thinkers adopt a contextual approach that considers social change, justice principles, and evolving gender roles. This reflects the flexibility of the Qur’an’s meaning, which can be contextualized to suit contemporary needs. Therefore, it is crucial to provide scholarly space for the reinterpretation of legal verses, in order to realize justice in line with the spirit of Islamic law in today’s context