Last year, in 2024, I had the opportunity to watch an enlightening clip of a lecture delivered by the esteemed Mufti Menk. In this lecture, he passionately discussed the significant impact of liking and sharing beneficial videos on social media, particularly in earning Sadaqah Jaariyah, or ongoing charity. Mufti Menk emphasized a critical point: if an individual shares a video that promotes evil or harmful behavior, they also bear responsibility for that action and may face consequences in the Hereafter. This insight struck me profoundly, as I realized how easily one can contribute to negativity simply through a click or a share.
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The message resonated with me so strongly that it felt like I was hearing a truly transformative lecture for the first time. Since that enlightening moment, I have become exceedingly careful about my interactions on social media. Every time I consider liking or sharing a video or post, I pause to reflect on its content and the potential impact it could have on others.
This caution is further reinforced by a verse from Surah Yasin, which states:
On that Day, We will seal their mouths; their hands will speak to Us, and their feet will bear witness to what they used to commit. (Quran 36:65).
This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our actions, including what we share online, will be accountable. I often find myself wishing that we could recognize the detrimental effects of social media swiftly and take decisive action to mitigate them before they escalate.
In recent days, I have been following a series of thought-provoking videos posted by Alli Temitope Abdussalam on Facebook. The videos delve into the adverse effects of social media, highlighting how it distracts Muslims from their priorities and spiritual responsibilities. It is genuinely disheartening to witness how some individuals misuse these platforms to spread misinformation or engage in divisive discourse.
Furthermore, I have noticed that some community members tend to share content that deepens divisions within the Ummah. They eagerly highlight the mistakes of scholars and create an environment of distrust and discord. While I firmly believe we should not condone any evil actions, it is equally important to recognize the distinction between genuine wrongdoing and mere human error.
As Ramadan approaches, my heart becomes increasingly heavy as I reflect on how some people might exploit social media to make statements that contradict Shariah, inciting further conflict among Muslims during this sacred month. This misuse not only undermines the purpose of Ramadan but also threatens to sow discord within our community.
Social media has undoubtedly made a significant impact on our lives, offering benefits like connectivity and self-expression. However, it also contributes to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and diminished attention. It can hinder our spiritual growth and connection with Allah due to constant digital engagement. As we approach Ramadan, a time for self-reflection and spiritual renewal, it’s an ideal moment to reassess our relationship with social media. Many experts recommend a ‘fast’ from social media—limiting or disconnecting from platforms during Ramadan—to foster more profound spiritual practices, engage meaningfully with others, and pursue spiritual transformation.
Ultimately, my prayer is for Allah to guide and redeem this Ummah, fostering unity and understanding among us during this blessed month and beyond.
Mustapha Ridwan O.
Mustapharidwan16@gmail.com
