The Asbāb al-Nuzūl of Sūrah al-Mujādilah Verses 1–4 and Its Relevance to Ethics of Communication in Modern Household Life

Abstract

Household conflicts and the rising divorce rate in the modern era are often caused by ineffective communication between spouses. Surah al-Mujādilah verses 1–4 recount the case of ẓihār experienced by Khaulah bint Tha‘labah, emphasizing the importance of respecting women’s dignity and fair communication. This study aims to analyze the context of revelation (asbāb al-nuzūl), the communication patterns involved, and the ethical values applicable to modern marital life. A qualitative approach was used, employing taḥlīlī tafsīr and library research, with primary data from the Qur’an and classical tafsir works, and secondary data from books and scholarly articles on marital communication. The findings reveal three key ethical principles: empathy, moral responsibility for speech, and self-control. These principles help prevent verbal abuse, conflict, and divorce, highlighting the importance of listening to, understanding, and respecting one’s spouse. The Qur’anic values derived from these verses provide practical guidance for building harmonious, just, and loving marital relationships.