Mumbai, India – In a recent public statement, renowned Islamic scholar Dr. Zakir Naik declared that earning revenue from YouTube is “haram” (forbidden) for Muslims, sparking debate among content creators and religious followers alike. Dr. Naik, known for his controversial views on various issues, made the remarks during a live online session on Islamic ethics and the digital age.
Dr. Naik’s Statement
Dr. Naik asserted that making money from platforms like YouTube violates core Islamic principles. He argued that earning from ads or sponsored content on YouTube encourages “promoting harmful, immoral, or un-Islamic content” and is part of the wider “culture of exploitation.” He emphasized that while creating educational or morally upright content is commendable, monetizing videos in any way that supports “un-Islamic practices” compromises the integrity of the creator.
“While YouTube itself may not be inherently haram, the act of monetizing through ads, which are often linked to content promoting inappropriate material, is problematic. It encourages the spread of fitna (corruption) and distracts from the true purpose of spreading knowledge,” Dr. Naik said.
Reactions from YouTubers and Followers
The statement has sparked controversy within the YouTube creator community. Many Muslim influencers and content creators have expressed frustration, claiming that YouTube’s algorithm and ad policies leave little room for ethical alternatives. Some argue that the platform is one of the few avenues for earning a livelihood, especially for creators who produce educational or religious content.
“I’ve always tried to create content that spreads positivity and Islamic values,” said one prominent Muslim YouTuber. “But if earning money from YouTube is haram, how do we reconcile that with the fact that it’s a legitimate source of income for many Muslims?”
Others, however, have supported Dr. Naik’s perspective, stating that content creators should explore other ethical avenues for monetization, such as donations or partnerships that align with Islamic values.
The Bigger Debate
Dr. Naik’s views have reignited a broader debate on the role of technology in the lives of Muslims. While many argue that digital platforms can be used for positive social change, others point out that many online ecosystems promote content that contradicts Islamic ethics.
Dr. Naik’s statement is likely to influence a growing conversation on how Muslims navigate modern digital spaces and how religious principles can guide their professional endeavors in an increasingly commercialized online world.
As the debate continues, many are questioning whether new interpretations of Islamic law are needed to address the complexities of modern-day entrepreneurship and digital media.
