Al-‘Ibrah Bi ‘Umum Al-Lafz La Bi Khusus Al-Sabab: A Contextual and Realistic Analysis of Surah Al-Baqarah 178 from the Perspective of Wahbah Al-Zuhaili

Abstract

This study examines the exegetical principle of al-‘ibrah bi ‘umum al-lafz la bi khusus al-sabab, which emphasizes understanding Quranic verses based on the generality of their wording rather than the specificity of the circumstances of revelation. This principle is widely accepted by the majority of Islamic scholars and often serves as a foundation for Quranic interpretation. The research focuses on the application of this principle to Surah Al-Baqarah verse 178 from the perspective of Wahbah al-Zuhaili, a contemporary Quranic exegete, through a contextual and realistic analysis approach. The main objective of the study is to explore how Wahbah al-Zuhaili applies this principle in his exegesis, particularly in Tafsir Al-Munir. This research employs a qualitative method with a library research approach, utilizing descriptive and comparative analysis to understand the characteristics of Wahbah al-Zuhaili’s interpretation in comparison to other exegetical perspectives. The findings reveal that Wahbah al-Zuhaili consistently applies the principle of generality of wording to broaden the scope of the verse’s meaning, making it relevant to various social and legal contexts beyond the specific reasons for the revelation of the verse. In his exegesis, he connects the verse to contemporary realities while acknowledging the asbabun nuzul as a historical background. This approach underscores the universality of the Quran in addressing diverse contexts of life.