Qur’anic Ethics and the Construction of Social Character

Abstract

The development of social character has become an important concern in contemporary Islamic education because various forms of verbal violence, social stigma, prejudice, gossip, and discrimination continue to affect interpersonal relations. The Qur’an provides a comprehensive ethical framework for building a harmonious social order, particularly through QS. Al-Hujurat verses 11–13. This study aims to analyze the construction of social character contained in these verses through Sayyid Qutb’s interpretation in Fi Zilalil Qur’an. This research employed a qualitative approach using thematic library research. The primary source was Sayyid Qutb’s Fi Zilalil Qur’an, while secondary sources included classical and contemporary Qur’anic commentaries and literature on Islamic education, moral education, and character formation. Data were analyzed through thematic interpretation by identifying ethical prohibitions, positive social values, and the educational transformation process implied in the verses. The findings reveal that QS. Al-Hujurat verses 11–13 constructs social character through three interconnected dimensions. First, the protection of human dignity is developed through the prohibition of ridicule, insult, offensive labeling, suspicion, spying, and backbiting. Second, social solidarity is built through recognition of human diversity, mutual acquaintance, equality, and the rejection of arrogance. Third, the formation of social character is constructed through a transformative process involving the purification of negative behavior, the cultivation of virtuous conduct, and the development of spiritual awareness. In Sayyid Qutb’s interpretation, Qur’anic ethics is not limited to individual morality but functions as a foundation for building a healthy social order. This study argues that QS. Al-Hujurat 11–13 provides a relevant conceptual framework for Islamic character education, particularly in responding to contemporary challenges involving verbal violence, social exclusion, prejudice, and identity-based discrimination.