Character Education Values in the Story of Prophet Moses and the Israelites in the Qur'an: A Hermeneutic Study

Abstract

The stories in the Qur'an hold many meanings and lessons. The purpose of these stories is to provide advice and teaching, as the Qur'an was revealed by Allah to serve as a warning, guidance, and source of wisdom. Understanding the stories in the Qur'an for character education is essential, as character education is a national educational policy. Therefore, this study aims to identify the values of character education in the story of Prophet Moses and the Israelites in the Qur'an. The research questions include: (1) What is the concept of the Israelites in the Qur'an? (2) How is character education portrayed in the story of Prophet Moses and the Israelites? (3) What are the character values in the story of Prophet Moses and the Israelites? The research paradigm uses an interpretive paradigm and a qualitative approach. The type of research is content analysis. The data source is verses Al-A’raf: 103 – 171. The data analysis technique uses Heidegger's hermeneutic theory. The research findings are: The Israelites are frequently mentioned in the Qur'an, intended to serve as examples from which lessons can be drawn. The Israelites in the Qur'an are portrayed as a tribe meant to be a lesson for other tribes. The concept of character education in this story has three main aspects: first, guidance or scripture; second, punishment; and third, reward. The guidance consists of teachings and wisdom. This guidance serves as a reference when facing punishment and reward. When punishment or reward is approached according to the guidance, it results in good behavior, and if practiced continuously, it forms noble character. The story of the Israelites in Surah Al-A’raf verses 103 to 170 contains character values such as patience, obedience, steadfastness, knowledge, and humility.