Religious Deviation and the Crisis of Marital Authority in Media: A Maqasid al-Shariah and Fiqh al-Munakahat Analysis of the Drama Bidaah

The portrayal of religious deviation and the destabilisation of marital authority within contemporary media has significant implications for public perceptions of Islamic law and family values. This study critically examines the Malaysian drama Bidaah, focusing on its representation of bid‘ah (religious innovation) and legal irregularities in the context of marriage. Using a qualitative methodology that integrates content analysis of media narratives with references to classical fiqh sources, Syariah legal documents, and official fatwas, the research identifies four central issues: marriage without a valid guardian (wali), non-fulfilment of essential marriage conditions (nikah batin), improper handling of mahr (dowry), and the depiction of nikah mut‘ah (temporary marriage) without court oversight. Through the dual frameworks of Maqasid al-Shariah and Fiqh al-Munakahat, the analysis reveals that such dramatisations risk distorting the objectives of Shariah, undermining the protection of religion (hifz al-din), lineage (hifz al-nasl), and social order. The findings underscore the urgent need for collaboration among media producers, policymakers, and religious authorities to ensure that popular culture does not erode foundational principles of Islamic jurisprudence. Ultimately, the study advocates for integrating Maqasid al-Shariah in media literacy and regulation to safeguard the integrity of Islamic family law and the moral fabric of Muslim society.