Journal of Noesantara Islamic Studies
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026)

Qur’anic Interpretation and Modernity: Understanding the Role of Tafsir in Contemporary Islamic Thought

Zakka, Umar (Unknown)
Mendes, Clara (Unknown)
Costa, Bruna (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
23 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study explores the evolving role of Qur’anic interpretation (tafsir) within the context of modernity and its significance for contemporary Islamic thought. Modern intellectual, social, and ethical transformations have generated new questions regarding the authority, methodology, and relevance of classical exegetical traditions, making tafsir a crucial site of engagement between revelation and changing realities. The objective of this research is to examine how tafsir functions as an intellectual mediator that enables Islamic thought to respond to modern epistemological and societal challenges while maintaining continuity with the Qur’anic tradition. The study employs a qualitative research design based on textual and interpretive analysis of selected classical and contemporary tafsir works that explicitly engage with modern issues. Hermeneutical and conceptual frameworks are used to analyze interpretive patterns, methodological orientations, and thematic emphases. The findings reveal that contemporary tafsir demonstrates significant methodological diversity, with a growing emphasis on contextualization, ethical reasoning, and thematic interpretation. Tafsir emerges not as a static tradition but as a dynamic intellectual practice that actively shapes modern Islamic discourse. The study concludes that tafsir plays a central role in negotiating the relationship between Islam and modernity, serving as a bridge between sacred text and contemporary thought.  

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijnis

Publisher

Subject

Religion Other

Description

Journal of Noesantara Islamic Studies is dedicated to bringing together the latest and most important results and perspectives from field of Islamic studies, devoting to provide an intellectual niche of new Islamic trends in society and beyond. The Journal of Noesantara Islamic Studies is a highly ...