Examining Verse 34 of Surah An-Nisa in Analyzing the Structure of Divorce Factors with a Foresight Approach

Abstract

Numerous verses in the Holy Qur'an address the institution of family and the factors that strengthen it. However, in contemporary times, individuals' lifestyles are less aligned with the rulings and directives of the Qur'an. Consequently, the country is witnessing an approximately 2% annual increase in the divorce rate, which serves as a warning signal for the future, bringing about irreparable social, cultural, and economic consequences. Adhering precisely to the rulings and directives of the Shari'ah can significantly reduce the divorce rate and encourage couples to reconcile and return to married life. Proper planning to control and mitigate this escalating trend requires an accurate understanding of divorce factors and a precise comprehension of the extent of their influence and susceptibility in the future, which plays a crucial role in achieving this objective. Accordingly, the present study aims to offer Qur'anic solutions for reducing divorce through a foresight approach using a documentary-survey-analytical method. Initially, efforts are made to identify the key drivers and critical factors influencing divorce in the future. Based on the results of variable dispersion in the influence-impact matrix of the MICMAC software, the factor of "women’s employment and financial independence" is identified as the most fundamental and influential factor in future divorce trends. Ultimately, addressing this issue necessitates policy-making and the provision of Qur'anic solutions, with an emphasis on Verse 34 of Surah An-Nisa.