TikTok Live Gifts and the Ethics of Earning a Living According to Islam

Abstract

The live gift feature on TikTok has become a new trend in the digital economy, where users can earn income through virtual gifts from their viewers. However, this trend raises ethical concerns, especially when it involves actions that contradict Islamic teachings, such as exposing the aurah, excessive dancing, or inappropriate behavior to gain more gifts. This study aims to analyze the TikTok live gift phenomenon from the perspective of Islamic ethics in earning a livelihood. The method used is library research, focusing on the interpretation of Qur’anic verses, Hadith, and contemporary Islamic economic literature. The results indicate that digital economic activities such as live streaming are permissible as long as they are conducted in a lawful, honest, and ethical manner according to Islamic principles. However, when such activities involve immoral behavior, exploitation, or deception, they become prohibited. Therefore, Islamic ethics emphasize the importance of dignity, honesty, and blessings (barakah) in every form of earning income in the digital era.