Values of Multicultural Education in the Perspective of the Qur’an: An Analysis of Surah Al-Mumtahanah, Verse 8

Abstract

Religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity challenges global harmony. Multicultural education, which values differences, offers a framework within Islam, but its scriptural basis needs investigation. This study formulates core values of multicultural education from Qur’anic Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60):8 through thematic interpretive analysis. A qualitative library-based design using thematic analysis (tafsir tahlili) was employed. Primary data sources were authoritative classical and contemporary exegeses of the verse. Data collection involved documentation of primary texts and peer-reviewed articles. Thematic analysis proceeded through open, axial, and selective coding to identify and synthesize key educational values. Two principal values emerged. First, the imperative to do good towards non-hostile non-Muslims, encompassing mutual help, gift-giving, and family ties. Second, the command to act justly, conceptualized as multidimensional fairness; political, social, ethical, that is proportional and respects individual rights. These commands are general and un-abrogated, applying to all non-hostile non-Muslims. Surah Al-Mumtahanah:8 provides a foundational mandate for an Islamic model of multicultural education centered on active goodness and comprehensive justice, reframing interfaith interaction from passive tolerance to proactive, equitable engagement. This study offers a clear scriptural basis for developing inclusive, justice-oriented curricula in pluralistic societies like Indonesia.