Thematic Interpretation of QS. Al-Baqarah [2]: 220 on Social Responsibility towards Orphans

Abstract

This study examines social responsibility toward orphans based on the thematic interpretation of QS. Al-Baqarah [2]: 220. It aims to analyze how families and communities fulfill their responsibilities toward orphans through the values of islāh and brotherhood contained in the Qur’anic verse. This research employs a qualitative method with a case study approach combined with thematic interpretation. The participants consisted of six orphan informants and eight adult informants representing caregiver families, neighborhood officials, mosque administrators, religious study groups, and the wider community. Data were collected through in depth interviews, observation, and documentation. The data were analyzed through coding, reduction, presentation, conclusion drawing, and verification, with source and method triangulation used to ensure validity. The findings show that families play a primary role in fulfilling orphans’ basic needs, supporting their education, providing emotional care, and offering religious guidance. Meanwhile, community support is provided through financial assistance, food, social attention, and religious activities. However, community assistance remains largely incidental and dependent on particular occasions. Overall, the values of islāh and brotherhood have been practiced in caring for orphans, but these practices have not yet developed into structured, sustainable, and coordinated social responsibility. This study provides a practical basis for strengthening family and community based orphan support programs.