A fatwa is a legal pronouncement issued by a qualified Islamic scholar to provide clarity on matters governed by Islamic law. Although not legally binding, it plays a significant role in guiding individuals and communities on religious and ethical concerns, especially in addressing the complexities of modern life. In recent years, the advancement of artificial intelligence or AI has raised questions regarding its potential application in Islamic legal discourse, particularly in the process of issuing fatwas. While the adoption of AI may enhance the efficiency of scholarly research, its role must remain supportive and never assume the authoritative function of a mufti.

The use of AI in the context of fatwa issuance is permissible only when it serves as an auxiliary tool. It can assist Islamic scholars by organizing references from the Quran, hadiths, and classical jurisprudential texts, as well as facilitating data analysis and textual comparisons. AI is capable of managing extensive databases and performing rapid information retrieval, which can be particularly helpful in streamlining the research process. However, the task of issuing a fatwa involves more than accessing information; it demands deep intellectual insight, ethical judgment, and a comprehensive understanding of the objectives of Islamic law, known as maqasid al shariah. These are human attributes that current AI systems are unable to replicate.

The potential risks of relying on AI in issuing fatwas include the danger of legal inaccuracies due to incomplete or erroneous data and the absence of contextual and moral discernment. A fatwa is not merely a technical verdict; it must be framed in light of the specific social and cultural environment of the community it seeks to address. A qualified mufti must possess mastery in Islamic jurisprudence or fiqh, as well as in the principles of legal methodology or usul fiqh. Furthermore, scholars must be known for their integrity, humility, and caution, qualities that have been consistently highlighted by esteemed classical scholars such as Imam al Nawawi and Imam al Ghazali. These ethical and spiritual dimensions are essential in ensuring that a fatwa remains balanced, compassionate, and aligned with the values of Islam.

Therefore, any integration of AI in the fatwa process must be carefully supervised and limited to functions that enhance, rather than replace, the role of the scholar. The use of such technology must be guided by the intention to serve the public interest, or maslahah, and must remain consistent with Islamic ethical standards. Fatwas issued with the assistance of AI should maintain their accuracy, relevance, and alignment with contemporary realities without compromising the foundational wisdom of Islamic jurisprudence. Scholars must remain at the center of the decision-making process, using AI only as a tool to support their work rather than as a substitute for their scholarly judgment.

This perspective is presented by Dr. Nurul Iman Mohd Zain, a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism and Wellness, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. Her expertise lies in the field of Islamic studies, particularly in fiqh and usul fiqh. Dr. Nurul Iman holds a Doctor of Philosophy in fiqh muamalat from the University of Malaya, awarded in 2021. She also earned a master’s degree in fiqh and usul al fiqh in 2014 and a Bachelor’s degree in Revealed Knowledge and Heritage, majoring in fiqh and usul fiqh, in 2011, both from the International Islamic University Malaysia. Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to upholding the integrity of Islamic legal traditions while engaging critically with contemporary issues, including the responsible use of emerging technologies in the realm of religious scholarship.