Syaikhuna: Jurnal Pendidikan dan Pranata Islam STAI Syaichona Moh. Cholil Bangkalan
Vol 17 No 01 (2026): March

Flexing Charity on Social Media: A Thematic Qur'anic Study of Philanthropic Verses

Riska Nur Hidayati (Universitas Nurul Jadid Paiton Probolinggo)
Musholli Musholli (Universitas Nurul Jadid Paiton Probolinggo)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Mar 2026

Abstract

The rapid development of social media has transformed philanthropy into highly visible digital self-presentation, giving rise to "charity flexing." While previous research examines this through Islamic law and ethics, comprehensive thematic (maudhu'i) analyses of philanthropic verses remain limited. This study aims to analyze the Qur'anic concept of philanthropy and its relevance to social media flexing. Employing a qualitative library research approach, this study utilizes the thematic interpretation method to collect and analyze verses related to zakat, infaq, sadaqah, and waqf (ZISWAF). The findings reveal that Qur'anic philanthropy is grounded in sincerity, social justice, public welfare, and solidarity. Furthermore, the ethical distinction between commendable digital philanthropy and problematic flexing lies in intention, motivation, and social impact. Publicly displaying charity can boost social awareness and transparency; however, it risks riya’ (ostentation) when driven by self-promotion. This study contributes an integrated ethical framework to understand digital philanthropy and online self-presentation, concluding that digital-era philanthropic practices must balance spiritual sincerity with social responsibility, supported by digital ethical literacy to prevent the normalization of performative charity.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

syaikhuna

Publisher

Subject

Religion Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Syaikhuna: Jurnal Pendidikan dan Pranata Islam STAI Syaichona Moh. Cholil Bangkalan (p-ISSN: 2086-9088 and e-ISSN: 2623-0054) is a journal published by Institut Agama Islam Syaichona Mohammad Cholil twice a year in March and October. This journal is a forum for communication in various disciplines, ...