Can Artificial Intelligence Perform Ijtihad? Authority, Epistemology, and Legitimacy in Digital Islamic Jurisprudence
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23917/suhuf.v38i1.16437Keywords:
Artificial intelligence, Ijtihad , Usul al-Fiqh, Legal authority, Digital islamic jurisprudenceAbstract
The swift advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in digital fatwa platforms and legal advising systems has sparked significant debate regarding its role in Islamic jurisprudence. Objective: This study aims to determine whether AI can perform ijtihad and to evaluate its validity and authority in relation to traditional usul al-fiqh. Methodology: The research adopts a qualitative, conceptual approach and a normative-doctrinal juridical method, analysing classical Islamic legal sources alongside multidisciplinary AI scholarship to assess epistemological, ethical, and legal prerequisites, such as mastery of knowledge, moral integrity, intentionality (niyyah), and sharʿi accountability. Results: The findings reveal that although AI can enhance data-driven legal research and replicate analytical reasoning, it lacks moral agency and legal responsibility, two essential conditions for legitimate ijtihad. Conclusion: Therefore, AI cannot function as an independent mujtahid, but may serve as a supportive analytical tool. Implications: This study contributes to the development of ethically grounded and technologically informed Islamic legal governance by positioning AI as an assistive instrument under the supervision of qualified scholars.
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