Comparison of Interpretation Patterns Based on Differences in Religious Authority Structures and Political-Social Contexts

Abstract

This research examines the differences in Qur’anic interpretation in Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. These differences are shaped by political factors, religious institutions, and the social conditions of both societies. In Brunei, Qur’anic interpretation follows the philosophy of Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) and adheres strongly to the Syafi’i school of law. Tafsir in Brunei is legalistic and state-regulated through official religious institutions. Meanwhile, Singapore develops a contextual and moderate interpretive approach due to its multicultural society and the minority position of the Muslim community. The purpose of this study is to explain how interpretive methods, sources of religious authority, and social realities influence Qur’anic interpretation in the two countries. The research employs a qualitative-descriptive method by analyzing tafsir works, religious policies, and previous studies. The findings show that Brunei maintains a uniform, Syafi’i -based exegetical pattern, whereas Singapore emphasizes maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah, social dialogue, and adaptation to contemporary needs. The study concludes that the differing characteristics of tafsir in Brunei and Singapore are shaped not only by the shared Malay-Islamic scholarly tradition but also by their political systems and modern social demands. These findings contribute significantly to Qur’anic studies in the Nusantara region by presenting a comparative analysis that has rarely been explored in previous research.