Islamic Perspectives on the Use of Artificial Intelligence
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The modern world has entered an era of technology in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought significant changes to people's lifestyles, education, research, healthcare, business, and communication systems. Tasks that required considerable time and effort only a few years ago can now often be completed instantly through AI. While this technology has opened new possibilities, it has also raised new questions regarding ethics, responsibility, and accountability. Therefore, as Muslims, it is important for us to understand the Islamic principles and ethical considerations associated with the use of AI.
From an Islamic perspective, knowledge and technology are neither inherently good nor bad. Rather, their value depends on the purpose for which they are used and the outcomes they produce. A knife can serve as a life-saving tool in the hands of a physician, yet become a means of harm in the hands of a criminal. The same principle applies to artificial intelligence. AI can advance research, education, and human welfare, but it can also facilitate the spread of misinformation, fraud, character assassination, and obscenity. Islam therefore teaches that justice, truth, and the common good must always guide the use of technology.
In the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty says,
وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَى وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْإِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ
Cooperate with one another in righteousness and piety, and do not cooperate in sin and transgression. (Surah Al-Ma’idah, Verse 2)
In light of this verse, it can be said that artificial intelligence should be used in ways that contribute to human welfare and do not assist in sin or wrongdoing.
Today, AI can generate images, videos, audio recordings, and written content. As a result, deepfake technology has created the risk of spreading misleading information by manipulating a person's appearance or statements. As we know, a deepfake is an image, video, or audio recording generated through artificial intelligence that appears completely authentic but is actually fabricated or artificially created. Islam strictly prohibits falsehood, deception, and damage to a person's reputation. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said,
مَنْ غَشَّنَا فَلَيْسَ مِنَّا
Whoever deceives is not one of us. (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 102)
Therefore, creating or disseminating false information through AI is contrary to Islamic ethics.
Another important issue is intellectual integrity. Many students and researchers now use AI to prepare essays, research papers, and other academic work. Using AI as a tool may be permissible, but presenting another person's work as one's own, publishing information without verification, or gaining academic advantages through dishonest means is not acceptable from an Islamic perspective. Islam emphasizes truthfulness and trustworthiness. Maintaining honesty in the use of AI is therefore essential.
Protecting privacy is another important aspect of Islamic ethics. Artificial intelligence can analyze vast amounts of data. However, using a person's private information, photographs, or documents without consent may constitute a violation of that person's rights. Allah says in the Holy Quran,
وَلَا تَجَسَّسُوا
Do not spy on one another. (Surah Al-Hujurat, Verse 12)
This guidance remains equally relevant in the age of technology.
At the same time, artificial intelligence offers numerous positive applications. AI can make important contributions to Islamic research, Quran and Hadith studies, language education, healthcare services, disaster management, agricultural development, and various public welfare initiatives. When a Muslim uses this technology to benefit humanity, pursue knowledge, and serve society, such efforts can be regarded as commendable and beneficial.
However, we must all remember that no matter how advanced AI becomes, it can never replace human beings. Human conscience, morality, accountability, and fear of Allah cannot be replicated by any machine. Artificial intelligence can provide information, conduct analysis, and offer recommendations, but the responsibility for making ethical decisions rests with human beings. On the Day of Judgment, it will not be machines but people who will be held accountable for their actions.
Therefore, in this modern world where AI technology is expanding rapidly, Muslims need a high level of technological awareness. They should use artificial intelligence in ways that strengthen the values of truth, justice, human welfare, and piety. From the Islamic perspective, technology achieves its true success only when it benefits humanity and helps people remain responsible toward their Creator.
Writer: Alem & Journalist
