Some Virtual Technologies and their Impact on Society: The Virtual World “Metaverse” as an Applied Model

Some Virtual Technologies and their Impact on Society: The Virtual World “Metaverse” as an Applied Model
 
Nermin Ibrahim Ahmed Kotb Shahin.
 Department of Comparative Jurisprudence, Faculty of Islamic and Arabic Studies for Female Students, Al-Azhar University, Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt
Email: nermenshahin@gmail.com
 
Abstract:
The term virtual world “metaverse” has recently been used repeatedly, and within this world many practices take place; the permissibility or prohibition of such practices may not be clear. Does anyone who enters this world have the right to practice whatever worship or have whatever relationships he wants? Or are there limits that cannot be exceeded? What is the impact of this world on the society in which we live? Therefore, it is necessary for us to uncover this world by discussing it and answering many questions, including: What is the reality of the virtual world? What is the truth about Metaverse? When did this world arise? Does the default world have a basis in Sharia or not? What is the ruling on performing the Hajj and Umrah duties through this world? What is the ruling on having a sexual relationship within this world? What is the ruling on virtual electronic games and their impact on young people? The most important results of the research include the following: It is not permissible to perform Hajj and Umrah through virtual world technology, and this does not substitute for performing the rituals themselves. The sexual relationships that takes place within the virtual world is not considered adultery that requires punishment, but these acts are undoubtedly forbidden, and are similar to masturbation. Virtual electronic games have advantages and disadvantages, and the extent of their permissibility or prohibition depends on what is associated with them and on their consequences.