Algorithmic Religious Authority and the Transformation of Fatwa Legitimacy in Indonesian Digital Muslim Communities

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital platforms and artificial intelligence has transformed the structure of religious authority and fatwa legitimacy in contemporary Muslim societies, particularly in Indonesia. Algorithmic systems on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and AI-based Islamic applications increasingly mediate the production and dissemination of Islamic legal guidance, creating tensions between traditional scholarly authority and digitally constructed legitimacy. This study examines how algorithmic governance reshapes ulama authority and influences public acceptance of Islamic legal opinions in Indonesian digital Muslim communities. Using a socio-legal approach combined with digital ethnography, the research analyzes digital religious content, online Islamic interactions, and AI-assisted fatwa systems through qualitative thematic analysis. The findings reveal that algorithmic visibility, audience engagement, and platform monetization increasingly determine religious influence, often surpassing institutional recognition and scholarly credentials. Digital environments also encourage fragmented legal interpretation, accelerated religious consumption, and personalized Islamic guidance. The study concludes that algorithmic religious authority requires integrated governance frameworks combining digital literacy, institutional verification, and maqasid al-shariah-based ethical principles to preserve scholarly integrity within digital Islamic ecosystems.