Analysis of the Application of Online Games from the Perspective of Maqashid al-Shariah in the Era of a Sustainable Modern Digital Economy

Abstract

The current development of the digital economy has a significant impact on various aspects of life, including the entertainment sector through the proliferation of online games. This phenomenon is not only related to entertainment but also impacts social, moral, and economic values among Muslim communities. This study aims to examine the use of online games from the perspective of maqashid sharia by emphasizing the five main objectives of sharia, namely protecting religion (hifz ad-din), life (hifz an-nafs), mind (hifz al-‘aql), offspring (hifz an-nasl), and wealth (hifz al-mal). The method used in this study is qualitative-descriptive with a literature review approach from various academic sources related to the digital economy and Islamic ethics. The analysis findings indicate that online games can provide economic and educational benefits if used wisely and in accordance with sharia principles, especially in terms of increasing creativity, collaboration, and economic opportunities through e-sports and digital content. However, excessive misuse can result in negative effects such as addiction, neglect of worship, and unnecessary expenditure of time and money. Therefore, the application of maqashid sharia is important as an ethical guideline to achieve a balance between digital technological progress and the moral and spiritual sustainability of Muslims.