NEGOTIATING ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS AUTHORITY IN THE ALGORITHMIC ERA: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY ANALYSIS OF DIGITAL DA'WAH

Abstract

This article discusses the dynamics of religious outreach in the digital space through an interdisciplinary analysis of religious studies. Advances in information technology have driven the transformation of religious outreach methods and media from conventional settings to digital platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. These changes not only influence the form and style of religious messaging but also present new challenges regarding scholarly authority, communication ethics, and the validity of information in the digital realm. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach using content analysis. The research method utilized is library research, with data collection drawn from various scholarly sources, including both print and electronic media such as books, e-books, and academic journals. Data collection techniques involve text reading that is, reading, noting, comprehending, and analyzing information in depth before systematically describing it. This study demonstrates that digital da’wah is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon, thus requiring an interdisciplinary approach that integrates communication studies, the sociology of religion, and media and technology. From a communication perspective, digital da’wah has transformed into a more interactive and participatory form, with its success determined by effective message delivery strategies. From the perspective of the sociology of religion, digital da’wah reflects changes in patterns of religiosity, including shifts in authority and the emergence of the commodification of religion. Meanwhile, developments in media and technology play a crucial role in disseminating da’wah messages, yet they also present challenges such as the spread of invalid information. Thus, an interdisciplinary approach is key to developing digital da’wah that is relevant, effective, and capable of having a positive impact on society.