From Jurisprudential Reasoning to Universal Reasoning: M. A. S. Abdel Haleem’s Euphemistic Interpretation of QS. al-Baqarah [2]: 222–223

Abstract

This study aims to examine the euphemistic style in the Qur’an, particularly in Q.S. al-Baqarah [2]: 222–223, which concerns marital relations and is often misunderstood, leading to negative perceptions of the Qur’an, such as accusations of degrading women and using vulgar language in the verse. Therefore, this study employs the euphemistic approach proposed by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem (as interpreted by Sunarso) to provide a contextual understanding of the verse. Based on this background, the main questions addressed in this research are: How is the euphemistic form of Q.S. al-Baqarah [2]: 222–223 understood from Abdel Haleem’s perspective, and what is its contribution to modern Qur’anic scholarly discourse? This research employs a qualitative methodology grounded in library research. The primary data source is Abdel Haleem’s book “Exploring the Quran”, which is analysed using Sunarso’s euphemistic theoretical framework to identify euphemistic elements within Haleem’s interpretation. The analysis is further supported by both classical and contemporary exegetical literature as complementary data. The findings reveal that Haleem’s interpretation of Q.S. al-Baqarah [2]: 222–223 employs a form of euphemism comprising two aspects: the physical aspect, including the words aẓā and ḥarṡun; and the behavioural aspect, encompassing the expressions i’tazilū, i’tū, lā taqrabūhunna, wa qoddimū li anfusikum, annā syi’tum, wa ittaqū Allāha wa i’lamū annakum mulāqūh wa basyiri al-mukminīn, and inna Allāha yuḥibbu al-tawwābīn wa yuḥibbu al-mutaṭahhirīn. These two aspects demonstrate that the verses convey messages of empathy and protection towards women. Furthermore, Haleem’s approach reflects a universal mode of understanding the Qur’an, producing interpretations that remain relevant to contemporary contexts and are open to multiple perspectives.