Let’s be real: social media is the wild west of our generation. It’s where your cousin Ahmed shares way too many sunset pictures captioned with ayahs, where your friend Zainab posts daily meal prep reels (Halal edition, of course), and where you accidentally lose two hours scrolling through memes that are somehow both hilarious and existentially terrifying. Social media can feel like a double-edged sword , entertaining but draining, connecting but, let’s admit, occasionally problematic.
As young Muslims trying to navigate our digital lives, how do we balance staying plugged in with staying true to our deen? Believe it or not, the Qur’an and Hadith offer timeless wisdom that can guide even our modern-day scrolling habits. So grab your chai, kick back, and let’s dive into how faith can help us keep our social media game not just lit but also legit.
1. Start With Niyyah (Intention)
First things first: What’s your niyyah when you open Instagram, TikTok, or whatever app has you in a chokehold this week? Are you seeking connection, sharing beneficial knowledge, or simply killing time? Remember the hadith: “Actions are judged by intentions.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
If your intention is to procrastinate while pretending to study, maybe it’s time to reframe your approach. Try making dua before logging in: “Ya Allah, let my time online bring me closer to You and benefit others.” Trust me, that’ll hit different when you’re about to dive into yet another 3-hour video essay on why the 90s were the best decade.
2. Think Before You Post (A Modern Amanah)
Posting on social media is a responsibility, kind of like giving a mini khutbah to your followers. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak what is good or remain silent.” (Bukhari)
Before hitting that post button, ask yourself: Is this truthful? Is it kind? Is it necessary? Sure, that rant about the latest Netflix series might feel cathartic, but is it worth potentially causing unnecessary drama? And let’s not even talk about resharing unverified “breaking news” without checking its authenticity. We’re not here to be part of the fitna factory, my friends.
3. Follow the Right Influencers (Avoid FOMO Fitsna)
Who you follow shapes your feed , and your mindset. Following influencers who constantly flaunt luxury lifestyles or post shady “Halal” crypto schemes can make you feel like you’re not enough or lead you astray.
Instead, curate a feed that uplifts you. Follow scholars, positive content creators, and even wholesome Muslim meme pages (because who doesn’t need a little halal humor?). A hadith reminds us: “A person is upon the religion of their close friend.” (Tirmidhi). Your feed is your digital ‘friend circle’ , choose wisely.
4. Watch Out for Ghaflah (Mindless Scrolling)
You’ve been there: you open TikTok to watch one “how to pray Qiyam-ul-Layl” video, and three hours later, you’re watching a cat do a cartwheel to a Drake song. That’s ghaflah , a state of heedlessness.
Allah reminds us in the Qur’an: “And do not be like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves.” (59:19). A practical tip? Set a timer for your social media use. Apps like Instagram even have built-in tools to remind you when you’ve been online for too long. Consider it your digital call to salah.
5. Be Modest (Yes, Even Online)
Modesty isn’t just about what you wear; it’s also about how you present yourself online. Whether it’s avoiding oversharing personal details or steering clear of controversial comment sections, keeping your digital interactions modest reflects your inner dignity.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Modesty is part of faith.” (Muslim). So before you post that “totally candid” selfie, ask yourself if it aligns with your values or if you’re just fishing for compliments. We’ve all been there , no judgment, just a gentle nudge.
6. Spread Positivity (Be a Digital Da’ee)
Your online presence is an opportunity to do good. Share Islamic reminders, uplifting stories, or even small acts of kindness, like responding kindly to someone’s question or comment. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The best of people are those who bring the most benefit to others.” (Darimi).
This doesn’t mean you have to become the next big Muslim influencer. Even a simple, heartfelt dua shared with your followers can brighten someone’s day. Imagine earning ajr every time someone says “Ameen” to your post. Talk about divine ROI!
7. Log Off for Your Soul
Finally, remember that sometimes the best thing you can do for your iman is to take a break. Social media can be a blessing, but it’s not a replacement for real-life worship, connections, and growth. The Qur’an beautifully reminds us: “Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (13:28).
So, if your feed is making you feel more stressed than inspired, it’s okay to step away. Pick up the Qur’an, call your mom, or take a walk in nature. Trust me, your notifications can wait.
Conclusion: Scroll With Purpose
Social media doesn’t have to be a source of guilt or distraction. When guided by faith, it can become a tool for connection, inspiration, and even worship. So the next time you’re about to scroll, post, or like, remember to check your niyyah, follow the Sunnah, and keep it halal.
Now go out there and be the shining digital ambassador of Islam we all know you can be. Just maybe lay off the 2 a.m. conspiracy theory threads, okay? Allah knows best, and He also knows your search history.