Digitization of Fatwas and Religious Authority: A Study on the Role of Social Media in the Interpretation of Islamic Law

The development of digital technology has transformed the way Muslims interact with religious sources, particularly in obtaining fatwas and guidance on Islamic law. Social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have emerged as new channels for preachers (dai), scholars (ustaz), and public speakers to issue fatwas, respond to fiqh questions, and interpret Islamic texts in an immediate and wide-reaching manner. This study aims to examine how digitalization affects religious authority in the interpretation of Islamic law in the era of social media. The method employed is a literature review with a qualitative approach, analyzing scholarly works related to the authority of ulama, the development of fatwas, and the phenomenon of digital dakwah. Preliminary findings suggest that although social media increases access to religious information, it also presents challenges regarding authenticity, the validity of scholarly transmission (sanad), and the potential oversimplification of Islamic legal discourse. Traditional religious authorities now increasingly share the stage with digitally popular figures who may lack formal academic or scholarly legitimacy. This research highlights the importance of digital religious literacy among Muslim communities and underscores the need to strengthen the role of formal religious institutions in responding to this transformation wisely. The study is expected to contribute to the development of an adaptive Islamic legal framework that maintains both the authority and scholarly integrity of Islamic jurisprudence.