Surat al-Nisa and the Centrality of Justice

A structural analysis of Surat al-Nisa shows that it is composed according to a symmetrical plan, featuring a return at the end to themes of the beginning (such as the fair treatment of women). In its form, identified as A-B-C-B'-A', the sura compares to other long Medinan suras. The overall structure is an expansion of the A-B-A' form common to Meccan suras. By identifying the large yet likewise symmetrical plan of this sura, the article-besides bringing to light an example of coherence-highlights continuity in the composition of the Qur.an. It also brings the middle passage of Sura 4 into focus. Here, reference is made to an incident involving a Jew accused of theft, and individual accountability is stressed. The Prophet's ruling in this particular case, putting into practice the just principles enunciated in the "Constitution of Medina," provides an instance of leadership by example. Finally, the article calls attention to a general development in the Medinan suras, wherein the figure of Mu.ammad, rather than that of an earlier Biblical prophet, for example, becomes central.