Life Skills in Part Twenty-Eight

Abstract

Grounded in the divine verse: "And We have sent down to you the Book as clarification for all things and as guidance and mercy and good tidings for the believers" (An-Nahl, 16:89), this study is entitled Life Skills in the Twenty-Eighth Juz of the Qur’an. The importance of the subject lies in its relevance to contemporary life and in the need of Muslims for tools that assist in reflecting on the Qur’an and drawing out the practical meanings of its verses. The study is structured into an introduction and three main sections: - Introduction: Defines life skills from both linguistic and terminological perspectives, while emphasizing their significance in personal and social development. - Section One: Cognitive Skills Derived from the Twenty-Eighth Juz This section explores key areas of Islamic knowledge presented in the Juz, including the concept and rulings of ẓihār (a form of prohibited divorce), the Islamic ruling on trade following the second call to Friday prayer, and regulations concerning divorce, waiting periods (‘iddah), and financial support (nafaqah). - Section Two: Behavioral Skills Discusses practical ethical conduct within two key spheres: society and the family. It emphasizes moral responsibility, cooperation, and appropriate interpersonal behavior as derived from Qur'anic guidance. - Section Three: Effective Communication Skills Focuses on Qur’an-based communication practices, such as respectful dialogue, persuasive speech, and private consultation conducted in righteousness and piety (al-tanājī bi-l-birr wa-l-taqwā). The Conclusion presents several key findings. Among them is the affirmation that reflection upon the verses of the Qur’an leads to beneficial knowledge and righteous action. The Qur’an provides a comprehensive set of life skills that meet the needs of Muslims in all aspects of life. Understanding the reasons behind the revelation of specific verses (asbāb al-nuzūl) is one of the most effective methods for uncovering the life skills embedded in the Qur’an. Applying these skills in daily life contributes to the stability and cooperation of Muslim society. A major outcome of acquiring Qur’anic life skills is the ability to act with wisdom in varying circumstances. Recommendations include: - Conducting a comprehensive study of life skills in the Qur’an. - Highlighting essential life skills and incorporating them into curricula for tafsīr (Qur’anic exegesis) and Qur’anic sciences. - Contextualizing relevant verses to address the realities of contemporary Muslim communities. - All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the Worlds.