Maintaining Islamic Values Amidst Technological Ease

The rapid advancement of digital technology has fundamentally altered economic activities, making shopping, bill payments, and investments accessible via mobile phones. For Generation Z, who grew up with the internet, the digital world is an integral part of daily life. While this digital convenience offers numerous benefits, it also introduces new challenges to upholding Islamic principles of muamalah, which govern human interactions, particularly in economic transactions.

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O you who have believed, do not consume one another's wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent.

Central to Islamic muamalah are principles such as honesty, fairness, transparency, mutual consent, and the avoidance of riba (usury), gharar (uncertainty), and fraud. These tenets remain highly relevant even as transactions move online. The Quran emphasizes that all transactions, whether direct or digital, must be based on mutual agreement and free from exploitative practices, as stated in Surah An-Nisa (4:29): "O you who have believed, do not consume one another's wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent."

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and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

The ease of digital commerce, fueled by promotions, flash sales, live shopping, and 'buy now, pay later' services, can encourage impulsive buying and a fear of missing out (FOMO). This consumerist behavior contrasts with Islamic teachings that advocate for simplicity and prohibit extravagance. The Quran warns against excess, stating in Surah Al-A'raf (7:31), "...and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess." Furthermore, Surah Al-Isra (17:27) equates spendthrifts with brothers of Satan, reminding believers to balance digital convenience with self-control and prudent financial management.

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Indeed, the spendthrifts are brothers of the devils.

Digital business also imposes ethical obligations on entrepreneurs. Sellers must provide honest product information, disclose any defects, and fulfill consumer rights. Buyers, in turn, are obligated to honor agreements and avoid actions detrimental to sellers. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the high status of honest traders, stating, "The honest and trustworthy merchant will be with the prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs" (HR. Tirmidhi). This principle of honesty is paramount in all forms of digital trade, including online stores, social media businesses, and e-commerce platforms. Islam strictly prohibits all forms of deception in transactions, as warned by the Prophet: "Whoever deceives, he is not of me."

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The honest and trustworthy merchant will be with the prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs.