Islamic Research: 6 Religious Rules to Consider When Using Social Media

The Islamic Research Institute (Majma' al-Buhus al-Islamiyya) reminded some basic rules to be followed when using social media and internet sites, which have become an integral part of the daily lives of millions of people today. These rules serve as a roadmap for individuals who want to protect their religious sensitivities in the digital world. The institution emphasizes that the freedom and unlimited access opportunities brought by the virtual environment do not eliminate moral responsibilities. It starts from the principle that all kinds of information and posts circulating on the internet are religiously accountable. In this context, it explained six basic conditions that users must pay attention to in order to both protect their own faith and contribute to the digital social order.

The first and most important item of the announced rules is that individuals must always be aware that Allah watches over them. To draw attention to this issue, the institution refers to the verse in the Quran: "Wherever you may be, He is with you, and Allah is Seeing of what you do." It states that this awareness will prevent all kinds of negative behaviors that may be committed by hiding behind an anonymous identity on social media. As the second rule, the importance of performing prayers on time and without interruption is emphasized. It warns about how dangerous social media use can be in terms of time consumption and how it can distract a person from their primary religious duties. It is recommended that individuals center their worship life rather than digital addiction.

Another important point that the institution delicately emphasizes is staying away from haram (forbidden) things in virtual environments and protecting religious boundaries even in moments thought to be private. Users are required to consciously stay away from content that they can easily access on the internet and that is incompatible with the rules of faith and morality. This is not only about protecting one's inner world; it also means that interactions in the online environment should be carried out on a halal and clean ground. It is reminded that actions thought to be committed behind the veil of privacy in the digital realm are also known by the Supreme Creator. Thus, users are advised that behaviors they would avoid in real life should not be exhibited on social media.

Considering the speed at which social media spreads information, news accuracy and sharing responsibility also occupy a critical place among these religious rules. The institution seriously warns users not to be a tool for the spread of false news, gossip, and lies. It is stated that before sharing any information, image, or claim from their accounts, they must definitely verify its accuracy. Otherwise, they will assume the role of a mediator that will create social panic or tarnish the reputation of innocent people without realizing it. This rule shows that digital responsibility awareness is seen not only as a universal moral rule but also as an Islamic duty.

Finally, it is emphasized that time is actually a great blessing and that social media use should not waste this valuable resource. It is stated that spending hours in front of the screen for empty and useless tasks is defined as a great loss. Individuals are advised not to fall into the trap of content that is of no benefit to themselves, their families, or society. The institution points out that valuing time is an indispensable element for both worldly and spiritual success. All these rules are listed to support the general idea that social media should be used consciously, moderately, and virtuously.