The relationship of games and entertainment with worship and social life in Islamic jurisprudence

This study examines the relationship between games and entertainment and worship and social life within the framework of Islamic jurisprudence. The aim of the research is to reveal the place of games and entertainment, which are natural elements of human life, in Islamic law, to evaluate the religious and social dimensions of these activities, and to determine the jurisprudential status of newly emerging forms of entertainment. The study employs the literature review method. The subject is examined in the light of the Qur’an, hadith sources, classical Islamic legal works, and contemporary academic studies. First, the understanding of entertainment in pre-Islamic Arab society is analyzed, followed by an evaluation of the Prophet Muhammad’s approach to games, entertainment, humor, and sporting activities. In addition, the understanding of entertainment during the periods of the Companions and later generations, as well as the views of the major schools of Islamic law on the subject, are discussed. In the final part of the study, digital games, in-game purchasing systems, virtual assets, and chance-based mechanisms are evaluated from the perspective of Islamic law. The findings indicate that Islam does not absolutely prohibit games and entertainment; rather, it recognizes the human need for rest and recreation. However, entertainment should not hinder acts of worship, contain prohibited elements, lead to moral corruption, or involve gambling-like practices. Accordingly, the study demonstrates that the Islamic legal approach to games and entertainment is based not on prohibition, but on the principles of moderation and balance.