Gender construction in the classical fiqh book Masāil al-Nisā’: Analysis from Judith Butler's perspective

A major issue in classical fiqh is gender representation, where women are often positioned subordinate to men. Masāilun al-Nisā’ constructs female identities and domestic roles through the repetition of socio-religious norms. This study examines these performative mechanisms using Judith Butler’s framework to reveal both explicit and implicit gender biases. Employing a descriptive qualitative-interpretative approach, thematic analysis, and Butler’s gender performativity theory, the research analyzes primary texts and supporting literature to uncover constructions of women’s roles, identities, and subordination in domestic contexts. Findings indicate that Masāilun al-Nisā’ constructs female gender identities normatively and performatively within the Javanese context. While affirming moral-spiritual equality, the text prioritizes domestic roles. Butler’s perspective emphasizes that gender hierarchies are socially and religiously constructed, producing female identities recognized through piety, obedience, and domesticity, while reproducing patriarchal structures. These findings expand understanding of gender performativity in local fiqh texts, highlighting the interaction between religion and social construction. Practically, the study informs gender-sensitive religious curricula, revision of classical interpretations, and women’s empowerment in education, economic participation, and public engagement.