As Gen Z Muslims, we’re living in the age of constant notifications, Insta stories, TikToks, and, of course, the classic late-night Netflix binge. We all know how easy it is to get caught up in the digital world, but how many of us have really stopped to ask: Is this tech life truly in line with the guidance of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to explore five Hadiths that could totally transform your relationship with tech, while still keeping things chill and relatable. Let’s dive in!
1. “The best of you are those who are the most beneficial to others.” , Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
This one’s a game changer when it comes to social media. We all know the temptation to scroll endlessly through your feed, but what’s the point if you’re not benefiting anyone (including yourself) from your time online? Next time you’re about to post a meme, make sure it adds value, whether it’s a reminder of Allah, a piece of beneficial knowledge, or just a good laugh to lift someone’s spirits.
Practical Tip: Use your social media for good! Share reminders, du’as, or educational content that uplifts others. Make your Instagram more than just selfies, let it be a reflection of your faith and positive vibes. Bonus points if you drop a #Bismillah before hitting post!
2. “Take benefit of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before your busy time, and your life before your death.” , Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
We love tech. No doubt. But sometimes it feels like tech is running our lives. Ever found yourself spending hours on your phone, only to realize you’ve wasted your whole evening? The Prophet’s advice here is about balance. Free time is precious, so let’s be intentional with how we use it. How about using that free time to actually live your life? Read Qur’an, go out with family, pray, or even work on your skills!
Practical Tip: Set tech-free times for yourself. No phone during prayers, meals, or family hangouts. Invest your “free time” in activities that will nourish your soul, so you’ll be living your best life both online and offline.
3. “Whoever shows you a good deed, follow it, and whoever shows you an evil deed, stay away from it.” , Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
The internet is like a buffet of everything, good, bad, and super cringy (we’re all guilty of watching one too many TikTok dances). But this hadith serves as the perfect reminder to be mindful of what we consume. If you’re scrolling through content that’s making you feel less connected to Allah or is just a waste of time, maybe it’s time to hit that unfollow button. This hadith reminds us to consume beneficial content and avoid anything that could mislead or distract us.
Practical Tip: Curate your social media feed like you curate your wardrobe. If something doesn’t vibe with your faith or your vibe, let it go. Follow accounts that promote positivity, knowledge, and good reminders. There’s enough negativity out there already, let’s be part of the good stuff!
4. “The strong man is not the one who is able to overpower others, but the one who controls himself when he is angry.” , Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Let’s talk about tech-related anger. Whether it’s getting upset over a bad WiFi connection, a frustrating email, or, let’s be real, getting into it with someone online, it’s so easy to lose your cool in the digital world. This hadith is a reminder to keep your emotions in check. When you’re angry, don’t let that moment of weakness rule your behavior. Instead, pause, take a deep breath, and remember the example of our Prophet (PBUH) who showed us how to stay calm and collected in all circumstances.
Practical Tip: Before you send that angry text or snap, take a moment. Walk away from the screen, breathe, and ask yourself if it’s really worth the emotional energy. Channel your inner Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), stay calm, keep it classy, and maybe even drop a friendly “As-Salaamu Alaikum” in your response. You got this!
5. “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are most consistent, even if they are small.” , Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Here’s where tech can actually work in your favor! The Prophet (PBUH) tells us that consistency is key when it comes to good deeds. So, how about using tech to help you stay consistent in your worship? Whether it’s setting reminders for your daily prayers, tracking your Qur’an reading, or listening to beneficial lectures while on the go, tech can be your spiritual BFF if you use it wisely.
Practical Tip: Download a Qur’an app, use a prayer tracker, or follow Islamic reminders on your feed. Small, consistent actions, like listening to a short du’a while commuting or setting an alarm for Dhuhr, can go a long way. Plus, you’ll get that sweet, sweet feeling of doing something productive for your soul without having to sacrifice your screen time.
So, there you have it, fam! Tech doesn’t have to be the enemy, it can be a tool for good if we align it with the teachings of Islam. Whether it’s sharing knowledge, taking control of your time, or keeping your emotions in check, these 5 hadiths provide timeless guidance that will help you navigate the digital age while staying grounded in your faith.
Let’s be real: tech isn’t going anywhere, but with a little bit of balance, intention, and the Prophet’s (PBUH) wisdom, you can totally revolutionize how you interact with it. You’ve got the tools; now use them wisely!