Collective Responsibility of Domestic Work in Muslim Households: A Feminist Interpretation and Critical Gender Critique Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15575/mjiat.v5i3.52665Keywords:
gender equality, patriarchy, Qiwamah, spiritual partnershipAbstract
This article examines the relationship between husband and wife in the Qur’an from a feminist interpretive perspective, focusing on whether household chores constitute women’s obligations or shared marital responsibilities. The study is motivated by certain classical interpretations, particularly of QS. an-Nisā’ [4]:34 concerning the concept of qiwāmah, which tend to position women in subordinate and domestic roles. Such interpretations raise questions about their compatibility with the Qur’anic principles of justice and equality in contemporary society. This research employs a qualitative library research method, combining thematic Qur’anic interpretation (tafsīr mawḍū‘ī) with critical gender analysis to reassess conventional understandings of marital roles. Its theoretical framework draws on the Islamic feminist perspectives of Amina Wadud, Asma Barlas, and Siti Musdah Mulia, whose approaches emphasize gender equality, justice, and spiritual partnership between spouses. The findings indicate that the Qur’an provides a foundation for reciprocal and equitable marital relationships. QS. ar-Rūm [30]:21 highlights the principles of sakinah, mawaddah, and raḥmah, while QS. al-Baqarah [2]:187 illustrates the mutual relationship between husband and wife through the metaphor of garments for one another. These verses suggest that marriage should be understood as a partnership grounded in affection, protection, cooperation, and mutual responsibility. Consequently, household chores cannot automatically be regarded as women’s inherent obligations but should be negotiated and fulfilled collectively according to the circumstances and capacities of both spouses. This feminist interpretation offers a contextual and liberating understanding of Qur’anic teachings, contributing to contemporary Islamic discourse on gender justice and promoting more balanced, harmonious, and equitable family relationships.
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