An Analytical Study of “Jahiliyah” in Sa’id Hawwa’s Tafsir: Political Impat and Proposed Impact
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Abstract
The concept of Jahiliyah, as understood by Sa’id Hawwa in Al-Asas fi al-Tafsir, is not limited to the period before the arrival of Islam. It also represents a condition of moral, social, and legal deviation that can reappear in modern times. This phenomenon can be found in various aspects of life, including political and legal systems that stray from divine values. Through his work, Hawwa identifies different forms of Jahiliyah that are still relevant today and offers solutions based on the teachings of the Qur'an to address the challenges faced by contemporary Muslim societies. To gain a deeper understanding of this concept, this study aims to explore the meaning and derivation of Jahiliyah in the Qur'an according to Sa’id Hawwa's interpretation. Additionally, it examines the influence of Jahiliyah on modern political dynamics and formulates Qur'anic solutions proposed in response to this phenomenon. Furthermore, this research is expected to enrich academic insights for researchers, students, and anyone interested in Qur'anic studies and interpretation. This study uses a literature review approach with descriptive and analytical methods. The primary data source is Al-Asas fi al-Tafsir, while secondary data is gathered from various relevant references. The analysis applies riwayah and dirayah approaches, covering linguistic studies, historical reviews, and the relevance of Qur'anic values to current socio-political realities. Thus, this research not only explores the conceptual meaning of Jahiliyah but also connects it to historical contexts and modern developments. The study results show that Jahiliyah takes various forms, including zann al-Jahiliyah (having bad assumptions about Allah), hukm al-Jahiliyah (applying laws other than Allah’s laws), hamiyyat al-Jahiliyah (group fanaticism), and tabarruj al-Jahiliyah (showing off and seeking attention). In politics, Jahiliyah appears in identity politics, corrupt systems, authoritarian rule (istibdād), and excessive group loyalty (ʿaṣabiyyah), which often lead to conflict and injustice. As a solution, Sa’id Hawwa emphasizes the importance of applying the principles of justice, responsible freedom, equality, and consultation (shūrā) to create a fairer and more participatory government system. Through this research, the study of Jahiliyah in Sa’id Hawwa’s interpretation is expected to contribute to academic discussions on contemporary Islamic thought. Moreover, it offers a broader perspective on the application of Qur'anic values as solutions to modern challenges. As more in-depth studies on this topic emerge, it is hoped that new, practical ideas will develop to address current societal issues and guide communities toward a more just and ethical social system.