Semantic Analysis of Lafaz Al-Birr in QS Al-Mumlahanah: 8: Reconstruction of Tolerance between Kindness and Justice

This study examines the semantic network of the term Al-Birr in the Qur'an in order to formulate a theological foundation for inclusive tolerance. The study is grounded in the reality of human plurality as a sunnatullah (divinely ordained principle), which necessitates positive interaction among people, while the understanding of Al-Birr has often been confined to the dimension of individual piety. Employing a qualitative library research method and a thematic (maudhu‘i) Qur’anic interpretation approach, this study analyzes 31 occurrences of the root word ب-ر-ر in the Qur'an. Semantic analysis is used to explore its basic lexical meaning as well as its syntagmatic and paradigmatic relationships. The findings reveal that Al-Birr is derived from the concept of Al-Barr (vast land), which conveys the meanings of expansiveness, steadfastness, and consistency in goodness. Semantically, Al-Birr is closely related to Iman (faith) as its foundation, Al-Taqwa (God-consciousness) as its inner orientation, and Al-Ihsan (spiritual excellence) as the perfection of spiritual quality. It also stands in contrast to Al-Itsm (sin) and Al-‘Udwan (transgression). The findings from Qur'an 60:8 (QS Al-Mumtahanah: 8) affirm that showing tolerance toward non-Muslims who do not engage in hostility against Muslims constitutes an ideal form of righteousness. Furthermore, the relationship between Al-Birr and Al-Qisth (justice) demonstrates that tolerance in Islam is not merely a passive attitude but rather an active, just, and sustainable expression of social piety. The novelty of this study lies in its integration of linguistic analysis and socio-religious context to construct a more comprehensive understanding of tolerance for multicultural societies.