Aplikasi Teori Fungsi Interpretasi Jorge J.E. Gracia tentang Hadîth Kebiri

Abstract

The paper highlights the contradiction of two hadîths on castration. The context of the issue has appeared within the contemporary Indonesia right after the Government stated the “additional punishment” for those who commit sexual harassment. The spirit of the punishment is to give a sort of “daunting effect” for the committers and “possible predators”. Such additional punishment has, however, invited various different responses from the Indonesian people. Some have rejected it, while some other have intensely called for its implementation. Regardless of this debate, article will shed light on the historical narration of Islamic view on castration in Muhammad’s life. The research finds that there are two hadîths which are regarded as contradictory. The first hadîth has narrated that Muhammad banned his companions to geld themselves. This happened when Muhammad and his companions went to battle field. Another hadîth has, however, reported that Muhammad allowed one of his companions to geld himself. These two seemingly conflicting hadîths need further care-ful explanations in order to reach the best and proper under-standing. In doing so, the author employs Gracia’s theory on the Function of Interpretation.