Alright, Gen Z Muslims! Let’s talk about something that we all love (and are slightly addicted to): technology. Yup, the very thing we blame for distracting us from salah is about to become our secret weapon for strengthening our deen. Intrigued? Keep scrolling (halal scrolling, of course).
The Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم didn’t have iPhones or TikTok, but if he did, you better believe he’d use them for maximum barakah. Let’s take some cues from his life and apply them to our modern digital world. Here’s how to do it:
1. Wake Up Like a Pro With Smart Alarms
The Prophet was known for his discipline, always starting his day with Fajr. You, my nocturnal friend, are probably hitting snooze 20 times and waking up five minutes before class. Enter: the smart alarm clock. Apps like Muslim Pro and Athan can call the adhan right into your ears. And if that doesn’t work, set your alarm to a recording of your mom yelling, “Wake up! You’re going to miss Fajr!” A little guilt goes a long way.
Pro tip: Sleep with the intention of pleasing Allah, and boom , your eight hours of shut-eye just turned into ibadah.
2. Turn Your Feed Into a Fountain of Knowledge
If scrolling is your cardio, let’s make it beneficial. Follow Islamic scholars, motivational speakers, and content creators who drop gems about the deen. Replace those cat videos (okay, keep a few) with accounts like @NoumanAliKhan, @YaqeenInstitute, and @QuranReflect. You’ll learn something new about Islam while still being “online.” Bonus: when your friends catch you liking Quran quotes, they’ll be inspired, too. Sunnah of good vibes, anyone?
3. Upgrade Your Quran Game With Apps
The Prophet loved reciting the Quran daily. Now, thanks to apps like Quran Companion and Bayyinah TV, you can take the Quran with you anywhere. Waiting in line for coffee? Read a verse. Stuck in traffic? Play a recitation. Feeling fancy? Test out your tajweed skills with interactive lessons. Just don’t let Siri butcher the pronunciation when you’re searching for Surah Al-Kahf.
Pro tip: Use the “streak” feature in Quran apps to keep yourself motivated. The goal? Be the Muslim Duolingo Owl.
4. Salah Reminders for the Forgetful Homies
The Prophet never missed a prayer, no matter how busy he was. Meanwhile, we’re out here saying “I’ll pray after this episode” … and five hours later, oops.
Download apps like Pillars or Muslim Assistant that not only remind you of prayer times but also help you locate nearby masjids. Some apps even have cool features like tracking missed prayers, because #Accountability.
Pro tip: Set a chill yet firm notification tone. Imagine a soothing reminder that whispers, “Hey, bestie, Allah is waiting for you.”
5. Make Dua, But Make It Digital
The Prophet emphasized the power of dua, and now you can, too, with apps like Dua & Azkar or Hisnul Muslim. These apps have a collection of duas for every occasion, from “waking up” to “finding your AirPods.” OK, maybe not the last one, but you get the idea.
Create a dua list, and don’t forget to share it with friends. Dua squads are a thing, right? If not, let’s make it a thing.
6. Gamify Your Good Deeds
The Prophet loved spreading kindness and good deeds. Why not turn this into a challenge? Use apps like DeedPal or QalbyApp to set daily or weekly goals, like “smile at five people today” or “recite 10 verses.” Reward yourself with a treat (halal bubble tea, anyone?) every time you complete your goals. Suddenly, being a good Muslim feels like leveling up in a game. Achievement unlocked: Jannah Points.
7. Be Mindful of Digital Detox Time
While the Prophet’s life was filled with connection, it was also balanced with solitude and reflection. You don’t need to delete your accounts, but set boundaries. Use screen time trackers to limit mindless scrolling and replace it with dhikr. Apps like Zenkit or Notion can help you plan “tech-free” moments to reflect on Allah’s blessings.
Pro tip: Start small. Dedicate 10 minutes a day to disconnect and reflect. Just you, your tasbih, and a cup of chai.
8. Spread Positivity Online
The Prophet said, “The best among you are those who benefit others.” So, use your platforms to share beneficial knowledge, spread kind words, or even post a reminder for Jumu’ah. Your online presence can be a form of sadaqah jariyah , a continuous charity. How cool is that?
Pro tip: Avoid online debates that turn into keyboard jihad. Keep it civil, friends.
9. Halal Hustle With Earning Apps
The Prophet encouraged honest earnings. Whether you’re freelancing, selling art, or running a side hustle, use platforms like Etsy, Fiverr, or Upwork to earn in a halal way. Just remember to give a portion to charity because barakah in your wealth is unmatched.
10. Stay Grateful and Grounded
Lastly, use gratitude apps to document Allah’s blessings daily. Apps like Grateful or a simple notes app can help you jot down things you’re thankful for. Gratitude isn’t just good for your soul; it’s straight-up Sunnah.
Final Thoughts
Technology isn’t the enemy; it’s how we use it that matters. The Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم showed us how to live a balanced, intentional life, and with the right apps and mindset, you can bring that blueprint into the digital age. So go forth, tech-savvy Muslims, and make your screens a gateway to Jannah.
Now, who’s ready to set up their salah alarm?