We’re living in the age of TikTok trends, late-night Reddit binges, and scrolling until your thumbs ache. But as a Gen Z Muslim trying to walk the straight path, you might wonder: Is my tech life halal? Or am I unintentionally adding haram pixels to my Akhirah scoreboard?
Let’s dive in with a checklist inspired by the timeless teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). (Spoiler: He didn’t have a smartphone, but his guidance on balance, mindfulness, and ethics? Timeless!)
1. Is Your Scrolling Serving a Purpose?
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught us to value our time, saying:
“The feet of the son of Adam will not move on the Day of Judgment until he is asked about… his life and how he spent it.” (Tirmidhi)
Okay, now pause. Scroll through your screen time stats (no judgment, I promise). How much of that was educational, uplifting, or genuinely meaningful? And how much was…well, stalking that influencer’s brunch pics?
Halal Tip: Balance your time! If you’re spending three hours watching gaming streams, give 10 minutes to a Qur’an recitation app or an Islamic podcast. It’s all about that barakah balance.
2. Are Your DMs Halal?
Let’s be real, social media is a DM jungle. Sliding into someone’s DMs can be innocent…or not-so-innocent.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“When a man and a woman are alone, the third is Shaytan.” (Tirmidhi)
DMs might feel “alone,” but you know who’s watching? Allah. Always. If your private messages are leading to something inappropriate (yes, even those ‘just for fun’ flirty emojis), it’s time to check yourself.
Halal Tip: Keep your DMs clean. Want to interact with someone? Make it respectful, or involve a third person if it’s something serious like a business inquiry or, you know, discussing marriage plans.
3. What’s On Your Playlist?
We all know the debate: music, halal or haram? While scholars vary on this, the Prophet’s guidance on avoiding things that cloud your heart is clear. If your playlist is full of tracks that glorify haram lifestyles (ahem drugs, violence, inappropriate lyrics), it’s probably not adding any spiritual vibes to your life.
Halal Tip: Swap out questionable tunes for nasheeds or uplifting tracks. You’d be surprised how many bangers out there don’t need to make your iman cringe.
4. Are You a Keyboard Warrior?
Ever found yourself in a heated online debate? Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“I guarantee a house in Paradise for one who gives up arguing, even if he is right.” (Abu Dawood)
Clapbacks might feel satisfying, but are they worth risking a house in Jannah? (Spoiler: Nope.)
Halal Tip: Next time you’re tempted to roast someone in the comments, step back. Type “Assalamu Alaikum” instead. Bonus: It makes trolls super confused.
5. Is Your Privacy Settings Sunnah-Compliant?
The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized modesty:
“Modesty is part of faith.” (Bukhari)
Now think about your Instagram. Are you sharing too much? Those gym selfies, vacation pics in questionable outfits, or oversharing about personal matters, do they align with Islamic modesty?
Halal Tip: Go through your posts. Ask yourself, “Would I post this if the Prophet (ﷺ) followed me?” Adjust accordingly.
6. Are You Spreading Good or Gossip?
We love a good “tea spill,” but Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) warned:
“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent.” (Bukhari)
Think twice before you retweet that shady meme about someone or join a comment thread full of negativity. Your words, even digital ones, matter.
Halal Tip: Share content that uplifts. Meme responsibly. Avoid gossip like you’d avoid expired halal chicken.
7. Is Tech Distracting You From Salah?
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“The first thing a person will be questioned about on the Day of Judgment is prayer.” (Abu Dawood)
Be honest: how many times has TikTok made you miss Maghrib? Or your late-night Netflix binge pushed Fajr to the “Oops, missed it” zone?
Halal Tip: Set alarms for Salah. Better yet, make your phone’s wallpaper a reminder like, “Did you pray yet?” It’s cringe-worthy in the best way.
8. Are You Using Tech to Make a Difference?
The Prophet (ﷺ) taught us to be a source of goodness:
“The best of people are those that bring the most benefit to the rest of mankind.” (Daraqutni)
Your phone isn’t just a dopamine machine. Use it to share knowledge, support causes, and spread positivity. Whether it’s donating to a charity with a few clicks or sending a friend a dua, small acts add up!
The Verdict: Halal or Haram?
Your tech life isn’t inherently haram, but it can drift into danger zones. The key is intentionality. Ask yourself: Am I using this to benefit my dunya and Akhirah?
Tech is a tool, not a temptation. Use it wisely, sprinkle in some barakah, and keep Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) teachings close to heart, even while you’re scrolling.
So, are you ready to audit your tech life? Drop a comment below (after Salah, of course). Let’s help each other stay halal in this digital age!