social media
Contributed by Mirza Rizwan Ali Baig (Hyderabad)
S
ocial media has ingrained itself into daily life. It fundamentally changes how we interact, absorb information, and view the world. Influencer culture is a brand-new phenomenon brought about by the growth of social media platforms. With an emphasis on influencers’ impact within the Islamic context, this article aims to go deeper into the significant social impact of social media.
Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc. have revolutionised significant social factors like communication and community-building. They enable users to create, share, and watch content, enabling global connections. The rapid growth of these platforms has given rise to influencers-people who have a particular number of subscribers and contribute to shaping public opinion and behaviour. This has transformed traditional marketing strategies and created a new personal and commercial influence space.
Influencers curate their lives to present idealised images, significantly impacting their followers’ opinions and behaviours. By collaborating with brands, promoting products, and sharing lifestyle tips, influencers even build a personal connection with commercial influence. This ability to sway public opinion and behaviour has made influencers play a key role in the digital age, transforming how we perceive success,
happiness, and other social norms.
The influence of social media is pervasive. It affects everything, from personal relationships to political movements. Understanding the effects of social media is essential for navigating the complexities of life and making informed decisions about our digital interactions.
Especially within Islam, social media presents unique challenges and opportunities simultaneously. It offers a significant platform for Dawah (Islamic outreach) and community building but poses risks related to identity, ethics, and mental health. Its influence on the Muslim community necessitates a thoughtful approach that aligns with Islamic principles and values.
Islamic teachings place a strong emphasis on truth and reality. The Quran and hadith provide clear guidance on differentiating truth from falsehood. The Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:42) states, “And do not mix truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it]”, highlighting the significance of maintaining integrity. Similarly, Surah Noor (24:30) advises believers to lower their gaze and guard their modesty, promoting purity and awareness.
Prophet Muhammad (SAWA) also highlighted the importance of honesty. He said, “Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to paradise. A man continues to tell the truth until he becomes a truthful person. Falsehood leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to hellfire. A man may continue to tell lies until he is written before Allah as a liar.” This hadith emphasises the moral imperative to uphold truth in all aspects of life.
The teachings of Ahlul Bayt (A.S.) also stress the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding to discern truth from illusion. Imam Ali(as) said, “ Do not be a slave to others when Allah has created you free,” encouraging believers to maintain their integrity and independence. Imam Jafar al Sadiq (as) also emphasized the pursuit of knowledge as a means to navigate through life’s complexities and avoid
deception.
Often, influencers create curated personas, presenting idealized versions of their lives, which leads to unrealistic expectations among their followers. This is mostly done by selective posting, image/video editing, and promoting specific lifestyles, that may not reflect their true lives. This usually creates a distorted perception of reality, leading followers to compare their lives to unattainable standards.
The psychological impacts of these comparisons are profound. Constant exposure to this type of content can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. Followers may struggle with low self-esteem as they try to measure up to the curated perfection they consume online.
Additionally, the promotion of materialism and consumerism is another significant consequence, which is caused by influencers showcasing luxurious lifestyles and promoting various products, driving followers towards increased materialism and consumerism. This can lead to financial strain and a distorted understanding of happiness, which becomes equated with material wealth and possessions. It is truly
said by Imam Ali(as) “He who seeks fame and greatness will perish.”
As discussed earlier, influencers play a crucial role in the decision-making of their followers. This transforms influencers into powerful agents of change, capable of shaping trends and societal norms. But fame and influence come with significant responsibilities. Islamic teachings emphasise humility and modesty, warning against arrogance and ostentation. Avoiding Riyaa (showing off) is crucial, as it is considered a form of shirk and is strongly condemned. It is stated in the Quran (Surah Al-Maauun 107: 4 – 7), “So woe unto those performers of Salat (hypocrites), Those who delay their Salat (from their stated fixed times). Those who do good deeds only to be seen (of men). And prevent Al-Ma’un (small kindnesses).”
Believers can navigate the challenges of influencer culture by promoting humility and integrity while staying true to their faith. Content creators have a responsibility to maintain honesty and integrity, avoiding deception and exaggeration. For consumers, critical awareness is essential. Followers should be mindful and discerning of the content they consume, seeking out reliable and beneficial information.
Islamic scholars and influencers effectively use social media for Dawah and community engagement. Following such accounts with educational content promotes positivity, and it can potentially enhance the social media experience, by providing beneficial information and inspiration.
The dangers posed by fake realities and influencer culture are significant. They affect mental health, materialism, and personal values. However, by adhering to Islamic teachings and values, one can navigate through the digital age with integrity and mindfulness.
The community is encouraged to use social media mindfully and responsibly, promoting education and awareness about its impacts within the Islamic framework. By doing so, Muslims can harness the positive potential of social media while mitigating its negative effects. Fostering a digital environment that reflects Islamic principles and values.
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