Alright, Gen Z Muslim fam, let’s talk about something real for a sec: tech hoarding. You know what I’m talking about, those gadgets you bought thinking they’d turn you into the next tech guru, but now they just sit in a drawer, judging you. The unused smartwatches, last year’s gaming consoles, and even that “must-have” phone case with LED lights. It’s time for a little intervention. Let’s take a page, actually, many pages, from the life of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), a man whose simplicity can inspire us to declutter both our hearts and our homes.
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ): The Original Minimalist
If Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) were around today, he probably wouldn’t be scrolling through TikTok at 3 AM or collecting a drawer full of phone chargers. He lived a life so simple, it makes Marie Kondo look like a hoarder. His home was modest, his possessions were few, and his focus was always on what truly mattered, faith, relationships, and serving others.
Imagine this: the Prophet (ﷺ) could’ve had the finest things of his time, gold goblets, silk robes, the works, but he chose a humble mat to sleep on and a cup for water. Why? Because simplicity isn’t just about owning less; it’s about making space for more, more peace, more gratitude, and more room in your heart for what truly matters.
Tech Hoarding: The Modern Dilemma
Let’s be honest: our tech habits are out of control. We buy stuff we don’t need because it’s “on sale,” or because we convince ourselves that a 4K monitor will somehow improve our productivity (spoiler: it won’t if you’re binge-watching Netflix instead). Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught us to be mindful of what we acquire. He said, “Richness does not mean having a great amount of property, but richness is self-contentment” (Sahih al-Bukhari). Translation: you don’t need the latest iPhone to be happy.
Step 1: Reflect on Your Intentions
Before hitting “Add to Cart,” ask yourself: Why am I buying this? Is it because you actually need it, or is it just retail therapy? Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized the importance of intentions, famously saying, “Actions are judged by intentions” (Sahih al-Bukhari). If your intention is to keep up with trends, maybe it’s time to pause and reevaluate.
Step 2: Embrace Gratitude, Not Gadgets
One thing the Prophet (ﷺ) excelled at was gratitude. He often expressed thanks for even the smallest blessings. Instead of chasing the next gadget, try appreciating what you already have. That slightly cracked phone? It still works. That “ancient” laptop? It gets the job done. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s already there.
Step 3: Give What You Don’t Use
Here’s a practical challenge for you: open your tech drawer (yes, the one you’ve been avoiding) and pull out everything you haven’t used in six months. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “The best of you are those who feed others and return greetings of peace” (Sunan Ibn Majah). Imagine how much peace you could bring by donating those unused gadgets to someone in need. It’s a win-win: you declutter your space, and someone else benefits.
Step 4: Disconnect to Reconnect
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was a man of reflection. He often retreated to the Cave of Hira to meditate and connect with Allah. While we’re not saying you need to find a cave, maybe it’s time to disconnect from your devices for a bit. Start small, an hour a day without your phone. Use that time to pray, read Quran, or even just sit with your thoughts. Trust us, your brain will thank you.
Step 5: Adopt a Sunnah Approach to Tech
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught us to use resources wisely. He once said, “Do not waste water, even if you are at a flowing river” (Ibn Majah). Apply this wisdom to your tech habits. Use your devices mindfully, maintain them properly, and resist the urge to upgrade every time a new model drops.
Step 6: Build Your Legacy, Not Your Collection
The Prophet (ﷺ) wasn’t remembered for what he owned but for the legacy he left. He inspired change, touched lives, and created a community built on love and faith. What if we shifted our focus from collecting gadgets to building relationships and creating memories? Let’s aim for a life where our impact, not our possessions, speaks for us.
The Gen Z Muslim Minimalist Manifesto
Here’s the deal: you don’t need to give up tech altogether. It’s about finding balance. Use your devices to strengthen your deen, listen to Islamic podcasts, join online Quran classes, or connect with fellow Muslims around the world. But don’t let tech own you. Remember, the Prophet (ﷺ) lived by the principle of moderation.
Final Thoughts: Simplicity is the New Trend
Living simply in today’s world isn’t just countercultural, it’s revolutionary. By embracing the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), you’re not just decluttering your home; you’re decluttering your soul. So, take a deep breath, put down that impulse purchase, and let’s start living with purpose.