In the Artificial Intelligence (AI) age, Muslim families, like any other families, are navigating the opportunities and challenges presented by technological advancement in every aspect of their daily life. This daily interaction includes Mobile apps, online platforms, and AI-powered devices can provide resources for prayer timings, Quranic studies, Islamic education, and access to religious scholars. These tools can help Muslim families maintain their religious traditions and strengthen their faith in the digital age. And in consistency with this technological advancement, the official religious institutions represented in Egypt’s Dar al-Ifta has launched the "Fatwa Pro" application, which is a multilingual electronic application created to communicate with Muslim communities, especially in the West. It is the first secure online platform that represents a regulated authentic reference on religious knowledge for Muslims in the West, providing them with a shelter to safeguard against the waves of extremism, deviation, and atheism. 

In this diversity and Islamic knowledge that became available before hand, the Muslim families need to consider the ethical implications of AI technology. This includes concerns such as data privacy, algorithmic biases, and the potential misuse of AI in spreading hate speech or misinformation. Islamic ethical principles, such as justice, fairness, and respect for privacy, should guide discussions on the responsible development and use of AI within Muslim families.

Domestic Violence: A Crisis of Faith?

To this effect, we need to shed light on one of the prevailing phenomena inside the Muslim family and try to investigate the legal texts to face it. Such a call of individualism is the natural result of the excessive use of smart devices inside the family. In other words, every member of the family is living in their own bubble and thus the language of balanced constructive communication sank into oblivion! Therefore, we might find many children from Generation “Z” constantly complain of being exposed to either physical or verbal violence from their parents due to the existing gap caused by technology and social media platforms.

Domestic violence is actually a serious and pervasive issue that affects individuals and families worldwide. It refers to any form of abuse or violent behavior that occurs within intimate relationships, including physical, emotional, sexual, or psychological harm. Domestic violence is a global issue affecting individuals of all genders, ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical and/or sexual violence.

In such a modern society in which individuals have access to education, and plays a crucial role in building and maintaining society, clinging to old-fashioned notions about disciplining women and children via violence does not make sense. As is mentioned in the Qur’anic verse, God asks the believers to advise their dependence with prayers and be patient with good words, “And enjoin prayer upon your family [and people] and be steadfast therein” Quran 20: 132). Refraining from any sort of striking is closer to the meaning that God intended for family relations in general “the ethics of mercy” “Rahma” in this verse and in this context.

However, what is being currently monitored denotes that violent treatment is the one and only resort with children or family members especially in absence of dialogue and understanding. It is also interesting to note that it has never been mentioned that the Messenger of God struck his wives or anyone. The mother of the believers, Lady ‘Aisha (may God be pleased with her) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) never struck anyone with his hand, neither a woman nor a servant, but only, in the case when he had been fighting in the cause of God. [Recorded by Muslim in his Sahih]. And for sure that golden rule that is the key to resolving more than 90% of age gap inside the Muslim family is God’s words in the Quran, “And speak kindly to people” (Quran 2: 83).

 Can AI help?

It's important to remember that AI should complement, not replace, human intervention and support. Personalized and empathetic human interactions are essential in domestic violence cases. AI should be seen as a tool to enhance existing services and provide additional support, while human professionals remain critical in providing emotional support and understanding the complexities of domestic violence situations. God Almighty says, “then ask those who have knowledge [of the Scriptures] if you know not” (Quran 16: 43).

While AI has the potential to be a valuable tool in addressing domestic violence, it raises important ethical considerations. Safeguarding privacy, ensuring data security, and avoiding algorithmic biases are crucial to prevent potential harm or misuse of AI technology in this sensitive area.

In conclusion, AI can contribute positively to addressing domestic violence by assisting in early detection, supporting survivors, analyzing data, assessing risks, and informing interventions. However, it is vital to approach the use of AI in this context with caution, ensuring privacy, ethical considerations, and a human-centered approach remain at the forefront of any technological solutions.