Utilising Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah into Cryptocurrency Structure A Halal and Stable Digital Finance Model

Abstract

This study introduces a pioneering conceptual framework for designing a halal and stable cryptocurrency system by embedding the higher objectives of Islamic law (Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah) directly into the structural architecture of digital currencies. Unlike prior works that focus narrowly on Shariah compliance through asset-backing or prohibition of riba, this research holistically integrates five core Maqāṣid principles—protection of faith, life, intellect, wealth, and lineage—across protocol layers. The proposed model rests on three foundational pillars: (1) asset-backing mechanisms to ensure price stability and wealth preservation, (2) dual-layer governance combining Shariah oversight with technical auditing for ethical and security assurance, and (3) embedded social-finance automation to institutionalize public welfare via smart-contract-based zakat and charitable allocations. The study’s novelty lies in its systematic linkage between Islamic legal philosophy and the technical design of blockchain infrastructure—marking a significant advancement in Islamic digital finance theory. Globally, the framework contributes a value-driven model for ethical fintech innovation, offering regulators, developers, and Islamic finance institutions a practical blueprint for creating Maqāṣid-aligned digital assets. However, being conceptual, the framework requires empirical validation. Future research should focus on prototype development, performance benchmarking under real-world conditions, and comparative regulatory analysis across jurisdictions to assess feasibility, adoption, and socio-economic impact.