Interpretation of Education and Nationalism in Tafsir Al-Mishbah: A Historical Study of Surat Al-Fatihah

Abstract

The influence of history on an interpreter is inevitable. It is difficult to deny the influence of social, political, economic, intellectual, and cultural situations at the time of revelation on the interpretation process, both in the past and present. In Quraish Shihab's interpretation of Al-Fatihah, the educational and nationalistic content is explicitly evident. This study employs Hans Georg Gadamer's theory of historical consciousness. The research utilizes the documentary method, analyzing various sources through reduction, presentation, and testing the validity of the data. Each exegete has different interpretations in understanding a verse due to the historical circumstances faced by each exegete, consciously or unconsciously, influencing the nuances of their interpretation of the Qur'an. In their interpretation of knowledge, the faithful are elevated in status by Allah due to the benefits of their knowledge to society. There are at least seven educational pearls of al-Fatihah as follows. First, the educational therapy of al-Fatihah. Second, a merciful human being who loves all creatures. Third, spirituality and work ethic. Fourth, inclusivity toward diversity. Fifth, a calm human attitude and viralization. A servant who believes in the Day of Reckoning will not worry when faced with injustice. Sixth, community economic development. Seventh, diverse truths. Pancasila itself is Indonesia's unique national ideology. Quraish Shihab's interpretation, whether consciously or not, is influenced by the circumstances and conditions during the interpretation process. Even these national values are reinforced by the national practices carried out by the Prophet (peace be upon him).