Call for Boycott of Pro-Israel Products in MUI Fatwa: An Analysis of Tafsīr Maqaṣidi

Abstract

This research analyzes the call to boycott Israeli products issued by the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) from the perspective of maqāṣidic exegesis (tafsīr maqaṣidi). The maqāṣidic approach in interpreting the Qur'an emphasizes the objectives of Sharia (maqāṣid al-sharī'ah), which include the preservation of religion (ḥifẓ al-Dīn), preservation of life (ḥifẓ al-Nafs), preservation of intellect (ḥifẓ al-'Aql), preservation of wealth (ḥifẓ al-Māl), and preservation of the state (ḥifẓ al-Daulah). The MUI's fatwa committee supports the boycott as a form of solidarity, aligning with the principles of justice and humanity in Islam, while also challenging the genocide committed by Israel against the Palestinian people. This paper is a type of library research, utilizing descriptive-analytical analysis. The findings of this research affirm that the boycott is viewed as an act of "amr ma'ruf nahi munkar," an effort to prevent wrongdoing and promote goodness. In the context of ḥifẓ al-Nafs, this boycott aims to protect human life and dignity from oppression. In the context of ḥifẓ al-'Aql, the boycott raises awareness among Muslims about global political and humanitarian issues. From the aspect of ḥifẓ al-Māl, the boycott encourages the ethical use of wealth and supports products not involved in oppression. Lastly, from the perspective of ḥifẓ al-Daulah, the boycott contributes to maintaining domestic stability and influencing foreign policy that supports peace. Moreover, the MUI fatwa on boycotting Israeli products is consistent with the maqāṣid al-sharī'ah, emphasizing the importance of such actions in achieving the welfare of the Muslim community and global society.

Keywords

• boycott; indonesian ulema council fatwa; solidarity; tafsīr maqaṣidi.