Al-Khizy in The Al-Qur`an Perspective of The Tafsir Al-Mishbah

Abstract

The discussion of al-khizy in Tafsir al-Mishbah is significant due to its nuanced semantic range and thematic relevance. The term is interpreted not only as punishment, but also as psychological discomfort and defilement. Importantly, al-khizy is not limited to disbelievers; it may also apply to Muslims, making it a morally universal concept. This study therefore focuses on how Qur’anic verses containing al-khizy are interpreted in Tafsir al-Mishbah, with particular attention to its meaning, causes, affected individuals, and strategies for avoidance. Linguistically, al-khizy derives from the root khaziya–yakhz?–khizyan, denoting disgrace or humiliation (Mahmud Yunus, 2010). Classical and modern sources, including Ensiklopedia al-Qur'an and Lisan al-Arab, expand its meaning to include degradation, separation, legal sanction, and moral disgrace (Quraish Shihab; Ibn Manzur). The term appears 26 times in the Qur’an across Makkiyah and Madaniyyah verses (Muhammad Fuad Abd al-Baqi), indicating its thematic importance within Qur’anic discourse on ethics and accountability. Compared to earlier studies based on Tafsir Ibn Kathir, which primarily interpret al-khizy as humiliation and defilement, this research highlights a broader conceptualization offered in Tafsir al-Mishbah. Quraish Shihab presents al-khizy as encompassing punishment, inner discomfort, and social disgrace, reflecting both textual depth and socio-cultural sensitivity. The choice of Tafsir al-Mishbah is therefore justified by its comprehensive scope, methodological consistency, and contextual relevance, making it a valuable framework for advancing the study of al-khizy.