CONCEPTS AND INTERPRETATIONS OF CULTURAL VERSES IN THE QUR’AN: A BIBLIOMETRIC STUDY

Abstract

This study examines the concepts and interpretations of cultural verses in the Qur’an using qualitative, bibliometric, and literature analysis methods. The phenomenon of globalization has encouraged complex intercultural interactions, requiring religion, particularly Islam, to engage in dialogue with contemporary culture to ensure the continued relevance of its teachings. A bibliometric analysis of 50 scientific articles published between 2017 and 2026 using Harzing’s Publish or Perish and VOSviewer identified an academic landscape centered on three main axes: tafsir, Qur’anic verses, and the concept of culture, which are closely interconnected with Qur’anic interpretation and texts. The network visualization revealed 11 thematic clusters encompassing classical and contemporary interpretive methodologies, epistemological dimensions, critiques of consumerist culture, social transformation, and leadership. Temporal analysis through overlay visualization demonstrates an evolution in research focus from textual studies toward more contextual, epistemological, and multidisciplinary approaches, accompanied by growing attention to contemporary tafsir, such as Tafsir al-Misbah, and humanitarian issues. These findings confirm that the construction of an integrated and systematic Qur’anic-based concept of culture, incorporating the value of justice and diverse exegetical traditions, remains an area requiring further development. This study addresses this gap by providing a conceptual map and more structured research directions, with the potential to contribute to the development of integrative and adaptive Qur’anic studies in response to contemporary challenges.