Reinterpreting gender in the Qur'an: Realizing inclusive interpretation in the modern era

The Qur’an has often been interpreted through patriarchal perspectives that limit women’s roles. This study highlights the challenge of reinterpreting gender in the Qur’an to develop understandings that are inclusive, just, and relevant to the context of modern Muslim societies. The research aims to analyze various forms of gender discrimination in Qur’anic interpretation and to explore opportunities and challenges in reconstructing more inclusive interpretations in the modern era. This study employs gender hermeneutics to uncover gender bias in traditional interpretations of the Qur’an through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method. The research identifies patriarchal bias by selecting and analyzing relevant literature. The analytical process involves critically evaluating biased classical interpretations in comparison with more inclusive contemporary interpretations, using a thematic approach to understand gender discrimination within the texts. Findings indicate that inclusive Qur’anic interpretation requires critical analysis of patriarchal bias, women’s empowerment, and contextual hermeneutics. Social change, education, and digital technology create opportunities to reconstruct gender-just interpretations. Through women’s involvement, educational reform, digital advocacy, and international collaboration, progressive interpretations emerge that promote gender equality and social justice in contemporary contexts. This study contributes to the development of Qur’anic studies by offering a multidimensional approach to foster more inclusive and gender-just interpretations. By integrating critical analysis, women’s empowerment, digital technology, and international collaboration, this research broadens the religious discourse toward progressive interpretations relevant to modern social dynamics and supportive of gender equality.