Reconstructing Artificial Intelligence Ethics through Qur’anic Values of Ihsan and Amanah Using Thematic Exegesis

Abstract

The advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought significant benefits to humanity; however, its widespread use has raised critical ethical concerns such as privacy, justice, transparency, and accountability, often without firm grounding in religious or moral values. To date, there is no systematically developed AI ethical framework rooted in the Qur’an, particularly one anchored in the values of ihsan (excellence) and amanah (trust), which are fundamental to human-technology relations. Thematic exegesis (tafsir mawdu‘i) on AI-related issues remains limited, despite its potential to extract Qur’anic principles relevant to addressing contemporary technological challenges.  This study aims to analyse the values of ihsan and amanah in the Qur’an using a thematic tafsir approach, to explore their potential as foundational elements of AI ethics, and to propose an initial ethical framework based on Qur’anic values. Employing a qualitative methodology, the study conducts content analysis of selected Qur’anic verses related to ihsan and amanah. The data are then thematically analysed to identify principles applicable within the context of AI development. The findings reveal four main themes of ihsan: (i) ihsan in social and legal matters, (ii) ihsan as a trait of the God-conscious, (iii) ihsan as a Divine imperative and expression of Divine love, and (iv) ihsan as a basis for Divine reward. Meanwhile, amanah emerges in five themes: (i) human responsibility, (ii) governance and leadership, (iii) prohibition of betrayal, (iv) a trait of the faithful, and (v) transactional trust. Collectively, these themes highlight justice, responsibility, and humanity—values that should underpin AI ethics. These principles can guide the development of AI policies and applications aligned with the maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah, ensuring that technology evolves justly, transparently, and ethically, while preserving human dignity.