Conceptual Analysis of Childfree Phenomena in Maqashid Sharia Perspective

Abstract

The study analyses the phenomenon of childfree, namely the decision to have no children, through the Syrian Maqashid perspective. The objective of the study is to explore how the concept of child-free is understood and accepted in the context of Syrian Makashid principles, which include the protection of religion (hifz al-din), soul (hifz al-nafs), reason (hifz al-'aql), descent (hifz al-nasl), and property. (hifdz al-mal). The method used is the study of literature, which involves the collection, and exploration of various relevant secondary data sources, including books, and journal articles. The analysis is carried out by highlighting views and arguments in literature and then grouping information based on Sharia Maqashid principles.  This research found that child-friendly decisions were driven by various factors such as economics, health, career, and culture. From a social perspective, individuals or couples who choose childfree often face social stigma and pressure, although, in more open societies, this choice is increasingly respected. Economically, the child-free decision provides significant financial benefits, despite concerns about support in old age. From a psychological point of view, this decision can have a positive impact in terms of greater freedom and stress reduction, but also the risk of feeling lonely or regretful later on. The research concludes that the Shariah Maqashid approach provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating child-free decisions, enables Islamic law to adapt to changing times and contexts, and bridges the gap between social reality and religious values.