Autonomy of Daughters and the Dynamics of Patriarchal Power Relations in the Family: An Analysis of Husein Muhammad's Gender Thought

Otonomi Anak Perempuan dan Dinamika Relasi Kuasa Patriarki dalam Keluarga: Analisis Pemikiran Gender Husein Muhammad

Abstrak

The phenomenon of restrictions on girls' autonomy within families in Indonesia—from prohibitions on continuing their education, strict controls on social activities, to the practice of child marriage—demonstrates that patriarchy remains powerful in the domestic sphere. Various reports by UNICEF, UN Women, and media outlets show that these restrictions have long-term impacts on girls' education, mental health, and even their economic future. In the context of Muslim societies, this issue is further complicated by its frequent legitimization through culture and religious interpretations. This study aims to fill a gap in the literature that has not yet connected the issue of girls' autonomy with the gender thinking of Husein Muhammad, a prominent figure in Indonesian Islamic feminism. Using a qualitative-descriptive approach and content analysis of Husein Muhammad's works, this study explores how patriarchal structures operate within families and how Husein's theological-progressive approach offers empowerment strategies through education, reinterpretation of religious texts, and the formation of egalitarian families. The research findings indicate that restrictions on girls do not have a strong normative basis in Islam, but rather are the result of gender-biased social constructions. Husein Muhammad's thinking provides a theoretical and practical framework for developing a more just, dialogical, and non-hierarchical model of the Islamic family, thus enabling girls to grow as autonomous subjects within the family and society.