The exegesis of verse 220 of Surah Al-Baqarah, which addresses the subject of orphans and the associated legal rulings, presents a profoundly sociological and ethical approach. This verse, articulated in a manner that eschews rigid and segregative injunctions in favour of a communal and rational coexistence, provides guidance for interacting with orphans within diverse social and historical contexts. The interpretation, emphasising distinctions between orphanhood in early Islam and modern societies, elucidates the position of orphans within social systems and the necessity of good faith in their guardianship. From the perspective of religious sociology, this verse not only pertains to juridical rulings but also attends to the emotional and social bonds among human beings, underscoring the preservation of the dignity of orphans. This manuscript rearticulates the content of the lecture series in an elevated and scholarly language and offers supplementary analyses for conceptual enrichment and semantic coherence. The structure of the text is designed to suit expert audiences and academic environments while employing allegories and literary allusions for greater engagement and profundity.
Verse 220 of Surah Al-Baqarah, articulated in a manner that distances itself from obligatory and segregative rulings, delineates a communal and ethical approach to interacting with orphans. The communal aspect refers to social and emotional coexistence with orphans without segregating them from the societal fabric. This approach, akin to a river embracing all within its flow, positions orphans alongside other members of society as religious brethren. The ethical nature of the rulings implies their rationality, inviting guardians to improve the affairs of orphans with good intent rather than rigid enforcement of strict commands. From the viewpoint of religious sociology, this perspective demonstrates the flexibility of Quranic rulings in social matters and accentuates human connections.
This interpretation, derived from lecture 605, is content-wise distinct from preceding discussions (such as the prior session) and is by no means repetitive. This content independence, like a novel melody in the Quranic symphony, indicates the depth and diversity of interpretative viewpoints in analysing the verses. Methodologically, this distinction emphasises the necessity of considering the context of each verse and interpreting it within its specific milieu.
Translation: In this world and the Hereafter. And they ask you concerning the orphans; say, "The reform of their affairs is better." And if you mix with them, they are your brothers. And Allah knows the corrupter from the reformer. And if Allah willed, He could have put you into difficulty. Indeed, Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise.
The phrase "إِصْلَاحٌ لَهُمْ خَيْرٌ" as the pivotal expression of the verse, is devoid of any explicit compulsion and, like a guiding light illuminating the path, offers a rational recommendation for improving the condition of orphans. This rhetorical conciseness, from an exegetical perspective, underlines the advisory nature of the ruling, inviting guardians to reform the affairs of orphans with benevolent intention.
The phrase "وَإِنْ تُخَالِطُوهُمْ فَإِخْوَانُكُمْ" connotes familial and brotherly coexistence with orphans. This concept, like a tree whose branches provide shade to all beneath, stresses equality and emotional bonds with orphans. From a social exegesis perspective, this outlook encourages establishing strong familial and social ties with orphans.
The expression "وَاللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ الْمُفْسِدَ مِنَ الْمُصْلِحِ" emphasises Gods knowledge of the guardians intentions. This notion, akin to a mirror reflecting inner truth, indicates that Allah distinguishes between good and evil intentions and that there is no need for accountability to others. From the Islamic theological standpoint, this stresses the importance of sincere intention in dealing with orphans.
Orphanhood, like a natural current within the river of human life, is a universal and perpetual phenomenon. It exists in all societies and eras and is not confined to any particular time or place. From the perspective of religious anthropology, orphanhood as part of the human experience manifests a continual need for social and emotional support.
The Noble Quran, like a sun shining throughout all times, adapts to all languages and eras. This timeless characteristic permits the Quranic rulings to be applicable within various social and historical contexts. From a historical exegetical perspective, this view underscores the comprehensiveness and perpetuity of the Quran.
In the era of early Islam, orphanhood was intensified due to the rudimentary societal structure. Orphans, lacking protectors and intrinsic content (such as literacy and capability), were vulnerable and at risk. However, in modern societies, with citizenship systems and taxation
