The Sunnah as Determinative over the Qur’ān: An Evaluation of Sūrah al-Nisā 4:34

This study aims to examine the decisive role of the Sunnah in the practical interpretation of Qur’ānic verses through the principle of “al-Sunnah qāḍiyatun ʿalā al-Kitāb” (the Sunnah is determinative with respect to the Qur’ān), a principle that has formed the basis of profound discussions within the Islamic methodological tradition, with particular focus on Qur’ān 4:34. The research argues that the act of “striking a woman” (darb) mentioned in the verse is directly connected to the socio-cultural context of the revelation period. Within this framework, it is maintained that the verse should be understood not as a direct legitimization of prevailing customary practices, but rather as a gradual and progressive regulatory measure aimed at protecting women’s legal and human rights by restricting such practices. The study first investigates the nature of the Sunnah and the epistemological foundations of the Qur’ān–Sunnah relationship. It then examines the historical background of the principle “al-Sunnah qāḍiyatun ʿalā al-Kitāb,” formulated by Yaḥyā b. Abī Kathīr (d. 129/746). Methodologically, a comparative literature analysis was conducted through the classical exegetical tradition, beginning with the earliest tafsīr texts. In addition, the Prophet’s practical implementation and moral stance regarding the issue were evaluated through a text-centered content analysis. The findings reveal that the Prophet’s practical example functioned as the most fundamental interpretive element, narrowing the scope of the physical intervention mentioned in the verse and seeking to render it effectively inoperative. In this regard, the article argues that the issue of physical intervention in Qur’ān 4:34 cannot be reduced to a purely literal reading; rather, no reasonable conclusion can be reached without taking into account the normative authority, practical model, and moral vision of the Prophetic Sunnah. By reassessing both classical and contemporary debates concerning the interpretation of Qur’ān 4:34 through the lens of the principle “al-Sunnah qāḍiyatun ʿalā al-Kitāb”, the study offers an original contribution to the tafsīr literature. Ultimately, it demonstrates, through a concrete case study, the determining role of the Prophetic model in the practical manifestation of Qur’ānic verses and in identifying the divine intent. In doing so, it provides a holistic perspective on methodological discussions concerning the relationship between the Qur’ān and the Sunnah.