Arus Pembaruan dalam Studi Al-Qur’an: Analisis Konteks Sosial-Historis Lahirnya Tafsir Maudhu’i

Abstract

Qur’anic exegesis studies (Tafsir al-Qur'an) dominated by the Tahlili (analytical) method have occupied a central position in Qur’anic interpretation. However, they often result in a thematic fragmentation of understanding because they interpret verses linearly, thereby impeding a holistic conceptual synthesis regarding contemporary issues. This methodological gap is reinforced by the global call from Islamic reform movements to return to the Qur'an and Sunnah as proof of the revelation's relevance and capacity to lead modern civilization. As an instrument for the renewal of the Qur'anic interpretation method, Tafsir Maudhu'i (thematic exegesis) was born. This research analyzes three critical phases of Maudhu’i’s adoption in Indonesia: the transmission phase, the curricular institutionalization phase, and the phase of dominance/mass application, tracing the central role of Maudhu'i figures in bridging this method. Through a qualitative approach based on libraryresearch using descriptive-analytical methods, the results show that Tafsir Maudhu'i has become an essential current of renewal, not only modernizing the Qur’an but also providing a substantive contribution as a methodological pillar for strengthening Islam Wasatiyah (moderate Islam) by presenting the Qur'anic message completely and balancedly, tackling partial interpretations that are vulnerable to extremism. Furthermore, Tafsir Maudhu'i is able to significantly enhance the Qur'an's relevance through interdisciplinary study, thereby allowing the revelation to address national challenges in an applicable manner. Thus, Tafsir Maudhu'i is capable of reinforcing the Qur'an's role as a dynamic, inclusive, and adaptive epistemological source for the complexities of modern life.