Revisiting the Concept of Nafs Wahidah in the Qur’an: A Critique of Amina Wadud’s View Based on Islamic Commentaries

Document Type : Scholary

Authors

Department of Qur’ān and Hadīth Sciences, Faculty of Qur’an, University of Quran and Hadith, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The concept of nafs wāḥida (the single soul), mentioned in Qur’an 4:1 and 7:189, has long been a focal point in Islamic exegesis and has significantly influenced gender discourse in Islamic thought. Amina Wadud, a prominent figure in Islamic feminism, emphasizes this concept to argue for the fundamental equality of men and women, challenging traditional views that consider women’s creation as derivative of men. However, her critique primarily targets Isrāʾīlīyyāt narratives, overlooking Shi‘i interpretations as well as other exegetical traditions across the Islamic world. This study adopts a descriptive-analytical and comparative approach to criticize Wadud’s methodology and compares Sunni and Shi‘i interpretations of nafs wāḥida. The findings reveal that, although Wadud offers a justice-oriented and critical reading of traditional perspectives, her analysis remains incomplete due to insufficient attention to the diversity within Islamic exegesis. Notably, the majority of Shi‘i commentators, in addition to some Sunni commentators, emphasize the shared origin of humanity and gender equality, aligning with Wadud’s critique of Isrāʾīlīyyāt-influenced narratives. By presenting a broader analysis of Islamic commentaries and critically assessing Wadud’s approach, this paper provides a more comprehensive understanding of nafs wāḥida and stresses that gender-focused interpretations of religious texts risk reductionism if they ignore the interpretive plurality within the Islamic tradition.

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References

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Classical and Contemporary Islamic Studies
Volume 8, Issue 1
Winter & Spring 2026
January 2026
Pages 63-72

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