Interpretation of Qur'anic verses on hoax news: A comparison of the opinions of Ibn Katsir and Wahbah al-Zuhaili
Abstract
Errors in response to news are still common in society. Some people easily spread information without verification, even though often the news is a lie or hoax. The impact is negative for society because it can trigger division and conflict due to lack of caution in responding to information. This action is contrary to the teachings of the Quran, as mentioned in Sura An-Nisa verse 83 and Sura Al-Hujurat verses 11-19. In the context of the interpretation of the verses on fake news, Ibn Kathir and Wahbah Az-Zuhaili are two scholars who pay attention to it in their respective tafsirs. This study aims to reveal the understanding of Ibn Kathir and Wahbah Al-Zuhaili, on the phenomenon of fake news in the context of the Qur'an. First of all, the study will explore how both interpret verses related to the spread of fake news. Then, research will highlight similarities and differences in their views on this phenomenon. Next, the focus will be on how the two interpreters describe the dangers of spreading fake news. Finally, the research will discuss how attitudes should be taken in dealing with fake news in this era. The results of this study indicate that accepting and spreading false news without checking its truth is a prohibited act and is considered a grave sin. The dangers of spreading hoaxes include the potential for disaster for a community, regret for the perpetrators, and the threat of adzab. Hoax spreaders can also be called liars and caught in satanic traps. The necessary attitude in dealing with fake news is to conduct research (tabayyun), get reliable witnesses, hold the principle of good assumptions towards others, speak based on correct knowledge, do not underestimate the seriousness of the situation, and return the case to the competent authority.
How to Cite This Article
Muhammad Suaidi Yusuf, Didik Hariyanto, Aghnie Rifqi NKF (2023). Interpretation of Qur'anic verses on hoax news: A comparison of the opinions of Ibn Katsir and Wahbah al-Zuhaili . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE), 4(5), 1092-1096. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/.IJMRGE.2023.4.5.1092-1096