Rethinking Disability Rights in Professional Domains

An Exegesis of Surah ‘Abasa (80): 1-4 through The Socio-Religious Model of Disability (SRMD)

Abstract

Persons with disabilities are often positioned within medical and charitable paradigms, which limit recognition of their capacities in public spaces, including the world of work. As a conceptual basis for fulfilling the professional rights of persons with disabilities, this article analyzes Surah ‘Abasa (80): 1–4. This study employs a qualitative approach through library research and applies the Socio-Religious Model of Disability (SRmD) by integrating the concepts of ahliyyah and maqasid asy-syari‘ah into the social model. The findings show that Surah ‘Abasa (80): 1–4 presents the neglect of Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum as related to a social perspective that evaluates a person based on bodily condition and social position. While the phrase “‘abasa wa tawalla” criticizes exclusion, “yazzakka” indicates that persons with disabilities possess the potential for self-development, knowledge acquisition, and social contribution. Therefore, the mention of “al-a‘ma” does not signify incapacity; rather, it affirms that physical limitation does not remove a person’s dignity, agency, ahliyyah, and professional capacity. The fact that Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum served as a muazzin, imam, and leader in Medina further strengthens the argument that persons with disabilities are entitled to employment access, reasonable accommodation, media adaptation, inclusive facilities, and legal protection.