Qur'anic Concept of Wilayah: Theological Foundations and Its Implications in Muslim Societies

Abstract

This paper investigates the Qur'anic concept of Wilayah—encompassing guardianship, authority, and spiritual leadership—and its implications for the spiritual, social, ethical, and jurisprudential dimensions of Muslim life.

Employing a multidisciplinary methodology, the paper integrates Qur'anic exegesis (tafsīr), linguistic and semantic analysis, classical jurisprudential discourse (fiqh), and contemporary sociological perspectives. A close reading of key Qur'anic verses is undertaken, informed by the interpretations of major Sunni and Shi‘a exegetes. The study examines the development of Wilayah in legal theory—especially concepts such as Wilāyat al-ʿĀmmah (general guardianship) and Wilāyat al-Faqīh (guardianship of the jurist)—and analyzes its application in both classical and modern Islamic legal systems. Qur’anic exegesis and juristic discourse demonstrate the impact of Wilayah on key domains such as family law, civil guardianship, political authority, and ethical governance.

The findings reveal that Wilayah functions as a dynamic jurisprudential and ethical principle capable of addressing contemporary issues such as religious pluralism, constitutional authority, and social justice. The study recommends renewed scholarly and policy engagement with Wilayah to promote spiritually grounded and legally sound Muslim societies in a complex global context.