Between Destiny and Curse: Theological Reform in Countering the Stigma of Disability in Islamic Discourse

This article aims to analyze and reform the theological understanding that has long associated disability with the stigma of a curse in Islamic discourse. The urgency of this research is based on the persistent negative perceptions of people with disabilities, leading to their marginalization and violation of their basic rights in society, including within Muslim communities. The prevailing narratives, both theological and cultural, often depict disability as a result of sin or a form of divine punishment, perpetuating discrimination and social exclusion. This research advocates for the establishment of a new, more inclusive and fair paradigm, aligned with the principles of justice and mercy in Islamic teachings. This study employs a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. Primary data were collected from major religious sources, such as the Quran, Hadith, fatwas, and Islamic theological documents, while secondary data were gathered from academic literature, scholarly articles, and related books. Data collection techniques included literature review, analyzed using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana model, comprising data collection, data condensation, data display, and verification. Data validity was ensured through source triangulation to confirm the validity of findings. The results reveal three main findings: first, historical narratives of disability as a ‘curse’ have created a profound stigma that persists from ancient times to the contemporary era. Second, Quranic literature indicates that disability is not a form of punishment but rather part of the diversity of humanity recognized within the framework of divine justice. Third, the comparison between the narratives of curse and divine predestination affirms that Islamic theology fundamentally supports the social inclusion of people with disabilities. The discussion underscores the need for theological reform and strategic recommendations for educational institutions, clerics, and policymakers to build an inclusive and socially just Muslim society.