QS. Al-Hujurat [49]:11-12 in Ibn Kathir’s Interpretation: Qur’anic Ethics and Bullying Prevention in an Islamic School

Abstract

Bullying remains a persistent challenge in educational settings, affecting students’ psychological well-being, social relationships, and learning experiences. This study examines Ibn Kathir’s interpretation of QS. Al-Hujurat [49]:11-12 and its relevance to bullying prevention at MAS Muallimin Medan. Employing a qualitative descriptive design, the study combines library and field research. Data were collected through analysis of Ibn Kathir’s Tafsir al-Qur’an al-’Azim, school observations, and semi-structured interviews with the principal, counseling teacher, Qur’anic interpretation teacher, homeroom teacher, and students. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis and the Miles and Huberman framework. The findings show that Ibn Kathir’s interpretation emphasizes interpersonal ethics through prohibitions against ridicule, insult, offensive labeling, negative suspicion, fault-finding, and backbiting. These principles correspond to forms of bullying identified at the research site, particularly verbal ridicule, derogatory labeling, excessive joking, and social exclusion. The study also finds that character education, teacher supervision, moral guidance, tabayyun, and parental involvement function as practical mechanisms for translating these Qur’anic values into school-based prevention. The study concludes that QS. Al-Hujurat [49]:11-12, as interpreted by Ibn Kathir, provides an ethical framework for fostering respectful relationships and preventing bullying in Islamic educational settings.