Reconstructing Qur’anic Self-Regulation for Digital Well-Being: A Maqāṣid al-Syarī‘ah Approach to Fear of Missing Out
Abstract
This study examines the phenomenon of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) as an issue of self-regulation in social media usage and constructs a Qur’an-based response relevant to digital well-being. This study employs a qualitative method based on library research, utilizing QS. Al-Hijr [15]:88 and Tafsīr al-Munīr as primary data, alongside literature on FoMO, self-regulation, digital well-being, and Auda’s maqāṣid framework as secondary data. The descriptive-interpretative analysis applies six features of Auda’s Systems Approach: cognitive nature, wholeness, openness, interrelated hierarchy, multidimensionality, and purposefulness. The findings indicate that Surah Al-Hijr [15]:88 can be constructed as a Qur’anic self-regulation model comprising three dimensions. First, attentional/cognitive regulation through lā tamuddanna ‘ainayka (do not extend your eyes) to control the tendency to compare oneself with others. Second, emotional regulation through wa lā taḥzan (and do not grieve) to manage sadness, anxiety, and feelings of being left behind. Third, behavioral-relational regulation through wakhfiḍ janāḥaka lil-mu’minīn (and lower your wing for the believers) to foster humble, empathetic, and healthy social interactions. These three dimensions form an interconnected process leading to digital well-being that is balanced, mindful, and oriented toward the common good. Thus, this reconstruction positions the Qur’an as a source of values for developing self-regulation in the face of contemporary digital life challenges
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.24952/el-thawalib.v7i4.21095
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