Technological advancements are increasingly shaping daily life. This includes the dissemination of information, with Muslims utilizing technology for Islamic da'wah, particularly Qur'anic interpretation (Tafsīr). While traditionally accessed through physical prints, Tafsīr is now readily available on websites. This study analyzes the sources, methods, and patterns of interpretation employed by http://muslimah.or.id. Employing a qualitative research method with a descriptive-qualitative approach, the study reveals several key features of the website's Tafsīr approach. Interpretations focus on individual letters, specific themes, and contemporary Muslim women's issues. Authors cite reference sources, and interpretations are diverse, reflecting at least four distinct methods. The website incorporates both traditional (bi al-Maʼthūr) and rational (bi al-Ra'y) methods, drawing from classical Tafsīr works like Jalalain, at-Ṭabarī, and Ibn Kathīr. Notably, the website utilizes thematic (Mawḍūʻī) and comparative (Muqāran) approaches. The website prioritizes socio-literary (Adabī ijtimāʻī) aspects, focusing on linguistic, literary, and socio-cultural contexts. However, the inconsistent nature of interpretations due to the website's multiple contributors presents a potential challenge.
The internet has revolutionized religious studies, significantly altering how religious information is accessed, practiced, and disseminated. Initially, the emergence of internet technology in the Eastern world was met with some skepticism among religious communities
In today's digital age, religious studies have also transitioned to online platforms. For instance, religious education, which traditionally required attending in-person scholarly gatherings, can now be accessed directly through live streaming features on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Many religious scholars now utilize online platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook to deliver lectures, teach, and address religious questions
Religious scholarship has also been significantly impacted by online media. A wide range of religious literature, including Tafsīr, is now more accessible than ever before. People increasingly prefer to seek religious knowledge through online platforms. Tafsīr, a crucial discipline for comprehending the Quran, has not been exempt from this digital transformation. Given the Quran's timeless and universal significance, its proper interpretation is vital, as it serves as a fundamental guide in the daily lives of Muslims, primarily achieved through a deep understanding of its teachings
The emergence of digital Tafsīr is marked by the digitization of classic Tafsīr works, such as Tafsīr al-Marāghī, Al-Kashf wa al-Bayān, Tafsīr al-Ṭabarī. This trend has led to the development of digital libraries like Al-Maktabah al-Shāmilah, Al-Mawsūʿah, and Lidwa Pusaka, accessible on various devices. Additionally, tafsīr works are now available in diverse formats, including prints, videos, audios, and online
The proliferation of online Tafsīr platforms raises important questions about the qualifications of the authors and the reliability of the interpretations. Are the authors qualified mufassirs? What are the sources of their interpretations? What interpretive methodologies do they employ? And most importantly, can these interpretations serve as reliable references for Muslims? In his book Kaidah Tafsir, M. Quraish Shihab discusses the qualifications of a mufassir, citing al-Imām Jalāl al-Dīn alssuywṭī's criteria
M. Quraish Shihab further elaborated on these qualifications. He clarified that these conditions primarily apply to those who aim to present original interpretations, not those who simply convey the views of earlier scholars. Additionally, he noted that these qualifications are intended for those who seek to interpret the entire Quran. He also suggested revising or reinterpreting certain aspects of the conditions and adding a criterion related to knowledge of the subject matter being discussed. Finally, he outlined several pitfalls to avoid in Tafsīr, including a lack of understanding of the historical context of revelation, the Speaker and addressees of Quranic verses, relevant sciences, and appropriate interpretive methodologies
This analysis of mufassir qualifications highlights the authors’ interest in evaluating the Muslimah.or.id website as a source of Tafsīr. The website’s diverse interpretations on various themes raise questions about the expertise of the contributors. By examining the website's interpretation methods, sources, and adherence to established scholarly principles, the authors aim to determine whether the website’s Tafsīr can be considered a reliable reference for Muslims.
Several studies have been conducted on interpretation websites, which are relevant to this research. A brief overview of each study is provided below:
Siti Nur Lailatul Azizah
Rani Surani
In summary, the reviewed literature highlights significant scholarly contributions to the study of interpretation websites, addressing aspects such as features, presentation methods, credibility, specific interpretations, and systematic approaches. Building on this foundation, the present research seeks to identify potential gaps through a more comprehensive analysis of the muslimah.or.id website, aiming to enrich the discourse and provide a deeper understanding of its interpretative framework.
This study employs a qualitative research methodology rooted in library research, utilizing books and literature as primary data sources, along with content analysis of both primary and secondary data relevant to the research focus. The primary data is drawn from the tafsiralquran.id and tafsirq.com websites, while secondary data includes books, journals, articles, and other literature related to the study
The research adopts a descriptive-qualitative approach, aiming to examine the methodology, techniques, and systematics of Quranic interpretation as presented on the muslimah.or.id website, followed by critical analysis. Data collection is conducted through the documentation method, enabling the researcher to thoroughly review all relevant content on the website
The Muslimah.or.id website serves as an online platform specifically designed for Muslim women, aiming to provide information and education relevant to their daily lives. The website regularly publishes Islamic articles covering a range of topics, including Aqidah, Manhaj, Fiqh, ethics and advice, family and women's issues, Islamic history, study information, and Quranic exegesis (Tafsīr). Established in 2007, Muslimah.or.id operates as the online media arm of the Al-Atsari Yogyakarta Islamic Education Foundation, which was officially founded on February 3, 2014.
With the motto "Achieving Muslim Women's Happiness on the Path of Salaful Ummah," Muslimah.or.id is dedicated to inspiring and educating its audience by adhering to moderate Islamic principles rooted in the Quran and As-Sunnah. The website is also committed to combating Polytheism (al-Shirk) within the community, emphasizing the exclusive worship of Allah through physical actions, speech, and heartfelt devotion. Additionally, it seeks to eradicate deviant practices and beliefs within society.
As of October 2024, the website has garnered significant attention, with 146,474 visitors, distinguishing it among similar platforms. This website, Muslimah.or.id, stands out for its comprehensive collection of articles on Islamic Creed (ʻAqīdah). These articles go beyond basic explanations of faith to explore its practical application in daily life. Additionally, the website delves into Islamic Jurisprndence (Fiqh), addressing specific issues faced by Muslim women. In doing so, Muslimah.or.id aims to provide practical guidance that empowers Muslim women to navigate their lives according to Islamic principles. Muslimah.or.id extends its focus to children's education
Furthermore, the website offers a dedicated section for understanding the Quran and Hadith. Muslimah.or.id presents clear interpretations and explanations, allowing visitors to engage more deeply with these sacred texts. This section delves into various interpretive topics, short letters, and themes related to contemporary Muslim challenges, offering relevant Quranic verses viewed through an interpretive lens
An analysis of existing literature revealed a vast number of articles on Quranic interpretation. However, these articles represent the work of numerous scholars and authors. Given the ongoing activity of Muslimah.or.id, it is likely that the website's contributors will continue to produce more content
The technique of writing Tafsīr refers to the specific methods employed by a mufassir to compile their work. In contrast, the systematics of interpretation encompass the broader rules and procedures used to interpret the Quran. While the former focuses on the technical aspects of writing, the latter is concerned with the methodological approach to interpretation
Through an academic analysis and examination of the methods employed for Qur'anic interpretation (Tafsīr) on the website Muslimah.or.id, the research has identified the following findings:
a.
established scholars like
b.
c.
books. For instance, the interpretation of Surah An-Nahl:80, concerning family maintenance, references a lecture delivered by Ustadz Sulaiman Abu Syaikha on “
d.
"Qadha Fasting for Pregnant Women and Lactating Women According to Shaykh Al-Albani
This study investigates the methods of Qur'anic interpretation utilized on the website Muslimah.or.id. While there exist various approaches to Qur'anic interpretation, including analytical (At-Tḥlylī), concise (Al-ʼIjmālī), thematic (Al-Mawḍūʻī), and comparative exegesis (Al-Muqāran), this analysis focuses on the two primary methods employed by the website: thematic exegesis and comparative exegesis.
Thematic Exegesis (Al- Mawḍūʻī)
Thematic exegesis, as defined by Al-Farmawi
Examining the interpretation of an entire surah, emphasizing its general and specific objectives (thematic unity) and the connections between its various themes.
Compiling and thematically interpreting verses from different surahs that address a specific issue.
Muslimah.or.id utilizes the first form of thematic exegesis, providing interpretations for entire surahs such as An-Nas [14], Al-Falaq [15], Al-Ikhlas [16], Al-Fatihah, An-Nasr [17], Al-Qari'ah [18], and Al-Masad [19]. Additionally, the website offers thematic interpretations based on issues commonly faced by Muslim women, enhancing its value as a reference source for them.
Example of Thematic Interpretation by Surah:
Title: “Tafsir Surat Al-Falaq”, by Yulian Purnama, uploaded February 11, 2024.
Example of Thematic Interpretation by topic:
Title: “Is it better for a Lactating Mother Better to Fast or Not?” by Victa Ryza Catartika, uploaded July 14, 2024
Comparative Exegesis (Al- Muqāran)
The comparative method (al-Muqāran) involves a mufassir (interpreter) comparing various interpretations of a specific verse from different commentators
Muslimah.or.id employs the comparative method in two ways: a) Presenting interpretations of verses with different wordings but addressing the same issue, and b) Comparing interpretations of a verse with the views of other mufassirs, offering visitors broader and deeper insights.
Example of Comparative Interpretation on Muslimah.or.id:
Title: “Wealth is Responsibility, Part 2” [22]. This article compares interpretations of verses related to extravagance and profligacy
In the
Tafsir bil Ma'thur refers to an interpretative approach that relies on authoritative sources, such as authentic Prophetic traditions (Aḥādīth), the interpretation of the Qur'an by the Qur'an itself, the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH), as well as the interpretations provided by the Companions (Ṣaḥābah) and their successors (Tābiʻīn).
Tafsir bil Ma'thur on muslimah.or.id is further categorizes into two types:
Tafsir bir ra'y stems from the scholarly reasoning (Ijthād) of an interpreter (mufassir) with expertise in the Arabic language, knowledge of verse contexts (Asbāb an-Nuzūl), abrogation (Naskh), and other relevant disciplines
In the field of Quranic interpretation, each mufassir (interpreter) tends to adopt different approaches when interpreting the verses of the Quran. These approaches are generally categorized into two types: the textual approach and the contextual approach. The textual approach focuses on understanding the meaning of Quranic verses by emphasizing grammatical and textual analysis
On the Muslimah.or.id website, both textual and contextual approaches are employed. The textual approach involves analyzing words and phrases within the Quranic text to uncover deeper meanings. Meanwhile, the contextual approach extends beyond the text, considering various dimensions to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the Quranic verses.
An example of a textual interpretation can be found in an article by Yulian Purnama, published on November 24, 2023, titled Tafsir Surat Al- Lahab (Part 1). In this article, the interpretation of the first verse of Surah Al- Masad explores the meaning of the word (tabbat), referring to the actions of Abu Lahab, and (tabb), which signifies Abu Lahab’s wretched personality. The interpretation also incorporates the concept of Asbāb an-Nuzūl (the circumstances of revelation) to provide a deeper understanding of the surah
The term "pattern" in Tafsīr is sometimes referred to as "other Tafsīr," which encompasses meanings such as tone, type, and distinctive features
a. Fiqhī Pattern
This pattern, often referred to as Tafsīr Āyāt al-Aḥkām (interpretation of jurisical verses), focuses on the jurisical rulings derived from Quranic verses. It is one of the oldest patterns of interpretation, closely aligned with the Quran's foundational role in Islamic jurisprudence. Many mufassirun (interpreters) regard this type of Tafsīr as integral to Islamic scholarship
b. Ṣūfī Pattern
This approach delves into the esoteric and spiritual dimensions of the Quran, seeking meanings beyond the apparent text. It often interprets Quranic verses based on subtle indications or signs that resonate with spiritual practices and mystical experiences
c. Scientific Pattern
This pattern employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from natural and social sciences. It seeks to draw connections between Quranic verses and various branches of knowledge, often incorporating philosophical reasoning to provide a broader understanding
d. Falsafī (Philosophical) Pattern
This pattern applies a philosophical lens, often characterized by liberal and radical thought. It aims to harmonize philosophical inquiry with religious teachings, fostering a dialogue between faith and reason
e. Adabī ijtimāʻī (Socio-Literary) Pattern
Lexically, Adabī refers to cultural and literary norms, while ijtimāʻī denotes societal and communal aspects. This pattern emphasizes the social and cultural dimensions of the Quran, focusing on its humanistic and practical guidance for contemporary life. It demonstrates the Quran's relevance across eras, addressing doubts and misconceptions while showcasing its timeless applicability. The Adabī ijtimāʻī approach is particularly valued for exploring the Quran's societal and ethical teachings
The Muslimah.or.id website predominantly employs the Adabī ijtimāʻī pattern, reflecting its emphasis on language, literature, and addressing contemporary issues faced by the Muslim community, particularly women. For instance, an article by Victa Ryza Catartika, published on November 2, 2023, titled Tafsir Surat Al-Fatihah Verses 3-5 (Part 3), exemplifies this approach
The primary sources of
The study of Quranic interpretation through online platforms represents a relatively new area of research. The Tafsīr analysis presented on Muslimah.or.id demonstrates a commitment to providing Quranic interpretations that are clear, accessible, and grounded in classical sources. The website offers insights from renowned mufassirun (interpreters), ensuring reliability and authenticity in its content. Muslimah.or.id serves as a valuable resource for both Muslims and non-Muslims seeking an understanding of the Quran. It can be used as a reference by students for academic purposes, by laypeople for practical daily guidance, and by anyone interested in exploring Quranic teachings. Its user-centric design and direct linkage to sources further enhance its utility as a trusted platform for Quranic interpretation.
We would like to thank Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta and Prince of Songkla University, and an anonymous reviewer for providing valuable input on these papers.
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
This research did not receive any financial support.