Incentivized Reading in the Digital Age: Analyzing the Application of Ju‘ālah in FizzoNovel’s Monetization System through the Lens of Hanafi Jurisprudence and Wahbah az-Zuhaili’s Thought

Abstract

In today's digital era, smartphone applications have evolved beyond mere communication tools; they now serve as economic platforms capable of generating income for their users. One such application is FizzoNovel, which rewards users financially for engaging in reading activities. This study aims to explore the monetization system embedded within the FizzoNovel app through the lens of Islamic commercial jurisprudence (fiqh muamalah), specifically by examining the concept of Ju‘ālah. The analysis is conducted by comparing the perspectives of the Hanafi School and Wahbah az-Zuhaili. Employing a qualitative methodology, this research utilizes a library-based approach, drawing upon books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and other scholarly sources. The findings reveal both convergences and divergences in the interpretation of Ju‘ālah between the Hanafi tradition and Wahbah az-Zuhaili, particularly in relation to digital monetization practices as exemplified by FizzoNovel. This study aspires to provide a contextually relevant and practically applicable legal insight for contemporary society, especially Generation Z, who constitute the primary user base of reward-based applications. Furthermore, the study aims to contribute to the evolving discourse of contemporary Islamic commercial law.