Tilawah: Journal of Al-Qur'an Studies
Vol. 2 No. 3 (2026)

Humans as *Khalifah*: A Study of Surah Al-Baqarah Verse 30 (A Comparative Study of *Tafsir al-Tabari* and *Tafsir al-Tanwir*)

Hasna Sarah Nur Rofi’ah (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Sep 2026

Abstract

This study aims to reexamine the concept of khalifah in Q.S. Al-Baqarah verse 30 by emphasizing the position and responsibility of human beings as stewards of the earth. The research employs a qualitative library research method through a comparative study between Ath-Tabari's Tafsir as a representation of classical exegesis and At-Tanwir Tafsir as a representation of contemporary interpretation. The data were analyzed by examining and comparing the interpretations of both exegetes regarding the meaning of khalifah. The findings reveal that the concept of khalifah should not be understood merely as authority or leadership on earth, but rather as a multidimensional trust encompassing moral, social, and ecological responsibilities. Ath-Tabari emphasizes the role of humans as successors entrusted to carry out God's will on earth, while At-Tanwir expands this understanding by highlighting human responsibility in maintaining environmental balance and promoting collective welfare. Therefore, the concept of khalifah serves as an ethical foundation for fostering ecological awareness among Muslims in responding to contemporary environmental challenges.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

i

Publisher

Subject

Religion Social Sciences

Description

Tilawah: Journal of Al-Qur’an Studies is peer-reviewed journal published by Hellow Pustaka Publisher in Collaboration with Pascasarjana Institut Agama Islam Tasikmalaya. The journal is aimed to publish research contributing to the development of theory, practice, and policy making in Al-Qur’an ...