Reconceptualization of Nusyūz (Disobedient)

Formulation of Household Resolving Conflict

Authors

  • Apriyanti Apriyanti Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Fatah Palembang, Indonesia
  • Thalhah Thalhah Universitas Islam Negeri A.M. Sangadji Ambon, Indonesia
  • Eko Zulfikar Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Fatah Palembang, Indonesia
  • Anisatul Mardiah Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Fatah Palembang, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22373/ujhk.v9i1.33626

Keywords:

Nusyūz, Fāḥishah mubayyinah, Disobedience, Household, Family Conflicts

Abstract

This research is driven by the rampant violence experienced by women in the household. Reasons for disobedience and disobedience of wives often trigger acts of violence that husbands mostly commit. Using the excuse of religious demands, the mistakes made by the wife are considered by the husband as a form of disobedience or nusyūz. Without an adequate understanding of the meaning of nusyūz and how to solve it, some unscrupulous husbands act arbitrarily because they consider themselves the head of the family with complete authority over their wives. This study aims to redefine the concept of nusyūz (disobedience) in order to develop a more balanced and beneficial framework. This study employs a normative-analytical approach, drawing on sources such as the Qur’an, hadith, classical texts (including fiqh, uṣūl al-fiqh, and tafsir), as well as other relevant references. The analytical methods used include textual analysis, uṣūl al-fiqh (takhṣīṣ method), and contextual interpretation within a socio-legal approach. According to the study, nusyūz refers to fāḥishah mubayyinah, or known sinful acts conveyed by the Prophet during the Hajj Wada’. Fāḥishah mubayyinah is a major sin that is known because it refers to sexual acts other than adultery. The meaning of nusyūz can be applied equally to husband and wife. It means that both husband and wife have opportunities to act nusyūz or disobey their partners.

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2026-05-30 — Updated on 2026-05-30

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