The Position of Men and Women: The Perspective of The Qur'an on Gender (Qs. Ali 'Imran (3): 36)

Abstract

This research examines the position of men and women from the perspective of the Qur’an, specifically through the thematic interpretation of the verse QS. Ali ‘Imran (3): 36. The study is motivated by contemporary dynamics surrounding gender issues, which are often viewed solely from sociocultural perspectives, thus raising critical questions about the essence of equality and differences in gender roles according to Islam’s primary source. The verse portrays the story of the birth and dedication of Maryam to the service of Bayt al-Maqdis, which carries theological and normative implications related to the status of female children and their comparison to male children within the framework of gender roles. This research employs the thematic tafsir methodology (al-tafsīr al-mawḍū‘ī), an approach that places a certain theme in this case, gender as the central focus in reading Qur’anic texts. The primary data consist of Qur’anic verses, complemented by supporting materials including authentic Hadiths, classical tafsir works (such as Tafsir al-Tabari and Tafsir Ibn Kathir), and contemporary interpretations. The analysis proceeds through stages including identifying the linguistic and historical context of the verse, synthesizing thematic meanings, and formulating gender implications within the theological construction of the Qur’an. Compared to previous studies, such as A. Wadud’s Qur’an and Woman (1992), which emphasizes feminist readings of the Qur’an, this study specifically interprets QS. Ali ‘Imran (3): 36 as a thematic case study to understand gender role differentiation textually. Earlier research often discusses gender themes broadly or normatively, whereas this study focuses on contextual analysis of a specific verse to represent Qur’anic principles on gender. The research findings demonstrate that the Qur’an emphasizes equality between men and women in carrying out righteous deeds and religious duties. The Qur’an encourages Muslims to increase good actions without gender-based distinctions. Through these deeds, spiritual elevation is achieved, and those who attain the highest level of piety are deemed most honorable in the sight of Allah.