Analysing the Perspectives of Ahl al-Hadith and Ahl al-Ra’yi within the Intersection of Technology and Religion

Mursyid Fikri

Indriana

 

Abstract: Prayer, as a fundamental pillar of Islam, is at the intersection of religious tradition and modern technological innovation. In the era of the rapidly evolving metaverse, questions arise concerning the validity and legitimacy of performing prayers in this digital environment. This article explores the perspectives of two prominent Islamic legal schools of thought, Ahl al-Hadith and Ahl al-Ra’yi, on the practice of prayer within the metaverse. By employing epistemological and ethical approaches, the article analyses the responses of these schools to the opportunities and challenges posed by the integration of technology into religious practices. The findings indicate two primary religious responses regarding the validity of prayer in the metaverse. The first response rejects the legitimacy of performing prayer in the metaverse, while the second accepts it under the condition that the virtual space meets the criteria necessary to serve as a legitimate place of worship.