Maqāsīd Al-Sharīa In The Fatwa Of The Indonesian Ulama Council Regarding Congregational Worship During The COVID-19 Pandemic

The implementation of worship in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially congregational worship, has led to a debatable problem among Muslims, including Muslims in Indonesia. Various Islamic groups in Indonesia share different opinions and views on the practice of worship during the pandemic. On the one hand, some groups reinforce that the COVID-19 pandemic should not become a barrier or hinder the religious practices. On the other hand, some others insisted that the practice of worship during the COVID-19 period must comply with predetermined health protocols. If necessary, it must be temporarily stopped to avoid the spread of the COVID-19 cases. In this regard, the Indonesian Ulama Council (MUI) issued fatwa number 14/2020 concerning the implementation of worship in the COVID-19 outbreak situation. This article examines and explores the basis and considerations of the MUI in establishing a fatwa regarding the implementation of worship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using qualitative analysis methods and the theory of maqāsīd al-sharīa, this research concludes that restrictions on the implementation of worship during the pandemic - or even prohibiting the practice of congregational worship for prone areas COVID-19 transmission - are based on considerations of benefit,. which is the essence of maqāsīd al-sharīa. The aim is to ensure five primary things (faith, soul, mind, offspring, and wealth). Hence, anything that can interfere with or threaten the existence of these five things must be avoided