Religious Scholars (Ulama) and Unofficial Islamic Law in the Western Cyberspace

The chapter focuses on examining the role of the ulama, who are religious scholars responsible for safeguarding and transmitting the sacred texts of Islam and answers contemporary questions of Muslims. The chapter aims to explore the challenges faced by the ulama in maintaining their authority. These challenges arise from various factors, including the establishment of state-controlled religious institutions that seek to exert control over religious matters. The chapter explains the implications of this state intervention on the traditional authority of the ulama and its impact on state-society relations. Additionally, the chapter investigates the emergence of new voices and alternative methods of knowledge production within the Muslim community. It examines how Muslim clerics and online bloggers, taking advantage of the Internet, utilize this platform to disseminate religious edicts or fatwas online. This shift highlights the changing terrain of religious authority, as individuals outside the traditional religious establishment gain influence and followers through digital means.