PRAGMATIC ANALYSIS OF MISCONCEPTION REGARDING GENDERED DISPARITY IN ISLAM WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO SURAH NISA VERSE 34

Abstract

This study is aimed at analyzing misconceptions regarding gendered disparity in Islam with special reference to Surah Nisa, Verse 34, by applying Yule’s theory of pragmatics. This approach has been used as a qualitative research in order to interpret, analyze and obtain data on the verse under study. Islam is a complete code of life. It ensures the smooth functioning of the society. In order to do that, it provides complete guidelines for the whole family and particularly, for the couple: husband and wife. The concept of equality in Islam is based on equity and justice, not on sameness. However, in patriarchal settings, the differences between responsibilities and duties of husband and wife are misinterpreted to ensure the submissiveness of woman to man. This article highlights a particular verse from Surah Nisa that is quoted by many far-right men as a license to beat their wives and treat them whatever way they like. The aim of this article is to present facts against the misconceptions regarding gender-based superiority. Furthermore, it explores that no human being is privileged, owing to his/her sex or gender. It is to inform the readers that in many cases, Islam raises the status of women by providing them complete protection rather than relegating them. By shedding off gender-based misconception about the teachings of Islam, it reveals a positive image of Islam through pragmatic analysis of the verse under investigation.