Is Bitcoin Halal or Haram? Here's the Explanation According to the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Ustadz Adi Hidayat, and Felix Siauw

Bittime - Questions about"Bitcoin halal or haram?"often appears as popularity increasescrypto assets in Indonesia. A number of Islamic scholars and institutions have provided different views regarding the legal status ofBitcoin in Islam. 

This article will comprehensively discuss the opinions of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Ustadz Adi Hidayat, and Felix Siauw, including the views of several other Islamic figures who highlight how blockchain technology can be addressed in a sharia context.

MUI's View: Bitcoin is Haram if Used as Currency

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has confirmed its official stance on Bitcoin and crypto assets inThe 7th Fatwa Commission Ulama Meetingin November 2021.

There are three important provisions agreed upon:

1. As a currency, Bitcoin is haram to use.

The reason is, Bitcoin contains elementsgharar(ambiguity),Dharar(potentially detrimental), and is contrary to Indonesian regulations regarding legal tender.

2. As a commodity, Bitcoin is also not legally traded.

Bitcoin is not legally traded if it does not fulfill the requirements of sil'ah according to sharia—namely, it does not have a physical form, definite value, and clear guarantee of ownership.

3. However, MUI opens up the possibility of halal

Bitcoin has a chance to be halal when crypto has it underlying assetwhich is clear, has real benefits, and fulfills sharia principles in transactions.

Thus, according to the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Bitcoin's halal status depends largely on its function. If it is used as a speculative instrument without any real benefit, it is likely haram.

READ ALSO: How to Buy Bitcoin Safely in Jakarta: A Complete Guide for Beginners

Ustadz Adi Hidayat's View: Depends on the Interests and Context

Ustadz Adi Hidayat views Bitcoin and crypto law more contextually. In several of his lectures and interviews, he emphasizes that Islamic law is not rigid but adapts to the context and emerging interests.

He explained that:

• The law of worship is fixed, while the law of muamalat (including digital economic transactions) is flexible.

• If an innovation like crypto provides tangible benefits, it does not create ghararexcessive, and does not harm other parties, then it can be considered halal.

• However, if it is used for extreme speculation, fraud, or illegal transactions, it falls into the haram category.

In other words, Ustadz Adi Hidayat believes that crypto is not haram in substance, but it depends on the method and purpose of its use.

Felix Siauw's View: Beware of Speculation and Uncertainty

Source:YouTube - Leon Hartono

Felix Siauw, a young preacher who actively discusses Islamic economic issues, expressed a more cautious view of Bitcoin.

According to him, Bitcoin does not fulfill the elements of money in sharia, because:

• Does not have a fixed value guarantee.

• There is no guarantor authority such as the state or Islamic financial institutions.

• The transactions are often speculative and unproductive, potentially leading tomaisir(gambling).

Felix Siauw emphasized that before using or investing in crypto, Muslims must ensure their intentions and benefits are clear, and that there is no element of fraud or uncertainty in the transaction.

Views of Islamic Scholars and Other Islamic Organizations

Apart from the three figures above, several Islamic organizations have also expressed similar views:

• Nahdlatul Ulama (NU)assess that Bitcoin containsghararand there is no legal clarity in Indonesia, so caution is needed.

• National Sharia Council (DSN-MUI)suggests that digital assets such as crypto should have a real underlying asset in order to be considered legitimate as a trading instrument.

• Middle Eastern scholars, such as Sheikh Assim Al-Hakeem and Mufti Taqi Usmani, also tend to reject Bitcoin because of its volatile nature and difficulty in being monitored by Islamic financial institutions.

READ ALSO: Bitcoin vs Altcoins: Which is More Profitable in 2025?

Conclusion

From the various views above, it can be concluded that Bitcoin is neither completely halal nor completely haram.

The law is contextual:

• It is haram if it is used for speculation, gambling, or has no clear value.

• Halal, if used productively, transparently, and in accordance with sharia principles.

In the Indonesian context, Muslims are advised to exercise caution and consult with muamalah jurists before investing in or using Bitcoin in economic transactions.

How to Buy Crypto on Bittime

Want to trade sell buy BitcoinsLooking for easy crypto investing? Bittime is here to help! As an Indonesian crypto exchange officially registered with Bappebti, Bittime ensures every transaction is secure and fast.

Start by registering and verifying your identity, then make a minimum deposit of IDR 10,000. After that, you can immediately purchase your favorite digital assets!

Check the course BTC to IDR, ETH to IDR, SOL to IDRand other crypto assets to find out today's crypto market trends in real-time on Bittime.

Additionally, visitBittime Blogto get various interesting updates and educational information about the world of crypto. Find trusted articles on Web3, blockchain technology, and digital asset investment tips designed to enrich your crypto knowledge.

FAQ

Is Bitcoin halal according to MUI?

The MUI stated that it is haram if used as currency, but it can be halal if it has a clear underlying and benefits.

What does Ustadz Adi Hidayat say about Bitcoin?

He believes that the law depends on the context and the benefit; it can be permissible if it brings benefits and does not cause harm.

What is Felix Siauw's view?

Felix cautions against overvaluation as Bitcoin is prone to speculation and has no fixed value.

Are there other scholars who allow Bitcoin?

Some scholars permit it on condition that there are basic assets and clear use according to sharia.

Is it safe to invest in Bitcoin for Muslims?

It is safe if you understand the risks, follow the regulations, and ensure it does not conflict with Islamic values.