Islam dan Kepemimpinan Perempuan: Prototipe Leadership Ratu Balqis Perspektif Tafsir Al-Azhar

Abstract

Women's leadership remains a subject of debate within the Islamic world, leading to various movements advocating for women's rights to be equal to men's. On the other hand, the perception that women prioritize emotions over logic has contributed to the notion that women are unsuitable for leadership roles. However, in reality, many women have proven themselves capable of leading institutions, organizations, and even nations. The Qur'an narrates a story of female leadership through the figure of Queen Balqis, who ruled the kingdom of Saba'. The purpose of this article is to explore the leadership prototype of Queen Balqis as depicted in Buya Hamka's Tafsir Al-Azhar. This research is a library-based study, with the primary data source being the Tafsir Al-Azhar, as well as secondary sources, including books and articles relevant to the research. The results of this study reveal that, from Hamka's perspective, Queen Balqis' leadership prototype embodies several key characteristics that are both relevant and valuable in the context of modern leadership. Analysis of Hamka's works, particularly Tafsir Al-Azhar, reveals that Queen Balqis possessed the following leadership qualities: first, wisdom and democracy. Hamka highlights how Queen Balqis demonstrated intelligence and wisdom in leading her people. Her decision to test the wisdom of Prophet Solomon by sending gifts reflects her ability to think democratically. Second, a diplomatic and peace-loving leader, Hamka, emphasizes that diplomacy is evident when a leader skillfully influences their followers to accept desired agreements and negotiations. Third, an intelligent and meticulous leader: Queen Balqis is portrayed as a smart, quick-thinking, cautious, and meticulous leader in making decisions. These three qualities in Queen Balqis make her a worthy role model for female leaders today.