Takwil: Journal of Quran and Hadith Studies

From Pesantren to the Public Stage: Divergence of Approaches to Quranic Interpretation between Kiai and Celebrity Preachers

Ahmad Fawaid — 2025-07-19

The divergence in Qur'anic interpretive approaches between traditional Islamic boarding school clerics (kiai) and celebrity preachers is increasingly evident on social media, where diverse styles and methods of da'wah converge. This study conducts a comparative analysis of interpretive approaches, focusing specifically on Surah al-Insyirah, as presented by two prominent figures: Gus Baha’, representing the traditional pesantren scholar, and Ustadz Adi Hidayat, as a representative of the celebrity preacher. Employing a qualitative descriptive method with a comparative study approach, data were collected through unobtrusive observation of texts, manuscripts, videos, and recorded tafsir sessions shared on social media platforms. The data were analyzed using Thomas Kuhn’s paradigm shift framework. The findings indicate that in addition to linguistic elements, the distinguishing features of Adi Hidayat’s approach include psychological and sociological dimensions, which lead to notable divergences in the duration, method, stages, and delivery attributes of the tafsir. These results affirm that the interpretive divergences between Gus Baha’ and Adi Hidayat are not to be viewed in opposition, but rather as complementary responses tailored to varying audience needs and levels of understanding.

Social Media as a Site of The Qur’anic Reception A Case Study of the Podcast Login Episode “Dicky Difie "Apapun demi Nyokap, Jadi M1skin Gua Siap!!!”

Farhan Suhada — 2025-06-30

This article examines the reception of the Qur'an on social media through an analysis of a podcast episode titled ‘Dicky Difie: Anything for my mum, so I'm willing to be m1skin!!’. The primary focus is on Qur’anic values, particularly those related to filial piety, sacrifice, and ethical commitment, which are reinterpreted and recontextualised within social media narratives. This study aims to explore the reception of the Qur'an on social media: a case study of the podcast Login episode: “Dicky Difie: anything for nyokap, so m1skin I'm willing!!!”. Using Ahmad Rafiq's living qur'an theory approach which emphasizes the reader's response to the Qur'an. The reception initiated by Ahmad Rafiq consists of three forms and two of them can be found in this Login podcast, namely exegesis reception in the form of understanding the Qur'an in accordance with existing translations or interpretations, aesthetic reception, namely interpreting the Qur'an based on its beauty either musically or in the form of calligraphy art. Using the content-analysis method, which analyzes the form of reception displayed in the content, then criticizes the transformation in it. This article concludes that QS. Luqman: 12-14 in this podcast has different interpretations from the scholars of tafsir who interpret this verse as a form of honouring the role of parents, especially mothers who have sacrificed for their children, whereas in this podcast, the understanding of QS. Luqman: 12-14 is interpreted as a child's negligence in giving attention to the role of the mother, who serves as the gateway to guidance for a child. Additionally, reciting the Qur'an with proper pronunciation (tartil) is highly appreciated as a testament to the miraculous nature of the Qur'an, which possesses a high artistic value within it.

The Dialectics of Hadith Authenticity: An Epistemological Dispute between Juynboll and Mustafa al-ʿAzami

Indina Ulin — 2025-06-30

This study analyzes the thoughts of G.H.A. Juynboll and Mustafa al-ʿAami regarding hadith authenticity, focusing on Juynboll’s Common Link theory and al-ʿAzami’s critique. Juynboll asserts that many hadiths in Islamic literature are products of isnad fabrication, centered on a key transmitter (common link), suggesting that such hadiths may not genuinely originate from the Prophet Muhammad. Conversely, al-’Azami argues that the isnad system has existed since the Prophet’s time and was meticulously preserved by hadith scholars. This research employs a qualitative-descriptive library study method. Primary data were obtained from the original works of both scholars and relevant secondary sources. The findings reveal that while the Common Link theory is helpful in mapping transmission chains, it is insufficient to question hadith authenticity without robust historical evidence. Al-’Azami’s critique highlights the importance of the narrators’ credibility and the continuity of the isnad as fundamental principles in hadith science. The study concludes that although Juynboll’s theory offers methodological value, its application must be approached cautiously to avoid contradicting the well-established principles of hadith authentication.

The Inflection of Meaning on the Word Nur in Q.S. An-Nur: 35 with Roland Barthes Semiotics approach

Sawfa Atina Mafaza — 2025-07-19

This article reconstructs the meaning of the word nur, which should not be limited only to light in the physical sense, but should also be drawn to the articulation of words in a particular text or discourse. Therefore, an approach is needed that does not only focus on its literal meaning, but can reach the symbolic and theological meanings contained in the text. This study aims to reveal the meaning of nur in Q.S. An-Nur [24]: 35 through Roland Barthes' semiotic approach. This research uses a qualitative method with the type of library research. The results of this study indicate that the meaning of nur in Q.S. An-Nur [24]: 35 does not stop at the meaning of light in physical form only, but experiences inflection of meaning through the process of denotation and connotation. In the linguistic system, the word nur denotatively means light, ray, illumination or lantern. While in the mythological system, a connotation meaning is obtained, namely a symbol of God who is a shiner, illuminator and guide for all nature. Through this connotation, the meaning of nur in the myth is born, namely His power through His guidance and revelation that illuminates every creature and the universe. So that all movements, be it the sun, earth, stars to the growth of plants can be understood as His destiny. So, to understand this must be with the eyes of a clean heart and not bound by materialism, worldly pleasures and lust.

Uncovering the Complexity of Human Personality in the Qur'an: A Theological and Psychological Approach

Hasan Ismail — 2025-06-30

The study of human personality as presented in the Qur’an is of notable importance, given its rich intersection between theological concepts and psychological insights in shaping personal character. In today’s world, where moral degradation, increased psychological distress, and spiritual emptiness are increasingly prevalent, there exists a visible dissonance between the ideal human nature (fitrah) and the behavioral patterns observable in modern society. This research seeks to delve into how the Qur’an defines the essential qualities and innate potential of human beings, to identify foundational values that support the development of character, and to analyze their relevance in addressing ethical and psychological concerns in the contemporary context. Employing a qualitative methodology, the study is based on library research and thematic analysis of selected Qur’anic verses that highlight notions of human character, devotion, and leadership. The results reveal that the Qur’an characterizes humans as beings naturally equipped with reason, free will, and a moral compass, capable of fulfilling their dual function as devoted servants of God (‘abd) and responsible stewards of the earth (khalifah). Core Qur’anic values such as perseverance, truthfulness, reliance on God (tawakkul), justice, gratitude, and sincerity are shown to be more than ethical principles—they also support psychological strength and mental stability. The harmony between theological doctrines and psychological wisdom in the Qur’an contributes to a holistic model of human personality, fostering spiritual-mental balance and resilience in facing the complexities of contemporary life.