A Comparative Study of Social Etiquettes in Surah An-Nur, Verses 27–31, in the Light of Tafsir Ibn Kathir and Tadabbur-e-Qur’an

تفسیر ابن کثیر و تدبرِ قرآن کی روشنی میں سورۃ النور آیات 27 تا 31 کے معاشرتی آداب: تقابلی مطالعہ

Abstract

Islam is a complete and comprehensive religion that provides guidance and clear teachings for every aspect of human life. Allah Almighty revealed the Holy Qur’an for the guidance, welfare, and success of humanity. It is a comprehensive source of commandments, teachings, principles, regulations, and social etiquette. Along with instructions concerning worship and human dealings, the Holy Qur’an also provides essential principles and manners for living a balanced and virtuous life, with the aim of reforming individuals and establishing a righteous, pure, and peaceful society. The Holy Qur’an presents important principles and social etiquettes at various places, characterized by comprehensiveness, universality, and enduring relevance. In this regard, the social principles and etiquettes mentioned in Surah An-Nur hold particular significance. Specifically, verses 27–31 provide fundamental guidelines regarding seeking permission before entering homes, respecting the privacy of household members, leaving when permission is not granted, lowering the gaze, maintaining chastity, and observing modesty and moral decency. If these Qur’anic teachings are implemented in their true spirit and followed sincerely by individuals, a harmonious and ideal society based on mutual respect, trust, modesty, chastity, peace, and tranquility can be established. Therefore, this article presents a comparative study of the social etiquettes mentioned in these verses in the light of Tafsir Ibn Kathir and Tafsir Tadabbur-e-Qur’an.