A critical and case-based analysis of verse 148 of surah An-Nisa «الْجَهْرَ بِالسُّوءِ مِنَ الْقَوْلِ» from a social perspective

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Professor, Department of Qu'ran and Hadith Studies, Hazrat-e-Masoumeh University, Qom, Iran.

10.30512/kq.2024.20653.3754

Abstract

The Quran has outlined the proper method of verbal communication in various situations. Verse 148 of Surah An-Nisa is one such instance, where it condemns the public uttering of evil words, yet it permits it for those who have been wronged. Relying on this verse, some individuals consider certain forms of verbal abuse permissible in seeking redress. However, this deviant interpretation of the verse creates an environment conducive to social harms. Therefore, this study has undertaken a critical and case-based analysis of the mentioned expression with a social approach to criticize and analyze the proposed instances and identify those that align with the intended wisdom of seeking redress.
The findings of this research, conducted through analysis and criticism, indicate that cases such as cursing and swearing contradict other Quranic verses and the conduct of religious leaders. These instances also fail to achieve the logical and rational benefits expected from seeking redress, which is for the wronged to attain their rights. However, considering the context of the verse, interpretive hadiths, and Quranic applications of evil and injustice, the term "evil" refers to the injustice itself. The verse intends to say that, if an injustice occurs, it is permissible for the wronged to expose it. Based on this meaning, there remains no justification for various forms of verbal abuse, such as cursing and swearing, to seek redress, whether individually or collectively. 

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Ketab-E-Qayyem
Volume 15, Issue 32
March 2025
Pages 1-18

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History

  • Receive Date: 19 September 2023
  • Revise Date: 06 February 2024
  • Accept Date: 22 February 2024

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