Empowering Muslim Communities: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Islamic Education and Knowledge Development

Abstract

This study examines the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in empowering Muslim communities through enhanced Islamic education and knowledge development. As global Muslim populations increasingly engage with digital technologies, understanding AI's potential to revolutionize religious education becomes crucial. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining systematic literature review with qualitative analysis of existing AI-powered Islamic educational platforms. Data were collected from 45 academic publications, 12 AI-based Islamic education applications, and interviews with 30 Islamic educators and technology developers. Findings reveal that AI technologies significantly enhance accessibility to authentic Islamic knowledge, personalize learning experiences, and preserve Islamic scholarly heritage. Key applications include Quranic learning platforms with speech recognition, Hadith authentication systems, personalized Islamic curriculum delivery, and digital preservation of manuscripts. However, challenges persist regarding content authenticity, cultural sensitivity, and the balance between technological innovation and traditional scholarship. Results indicate that 78% of surveyed educators view AI positively for supplementing traditional Islamic education, while 65% express concerns about theological accuracy. This study concludes that AI, when implemented within proper Islamic ethical frameworks and scholarly oversight, can democratize access to Islamic knowledge and empower Muslim communities globally. Recommendations include establishing Islamic AI ethics committees, developing quality assurance protocols, and fostering collaboration between religious scholars and technology experts.