Maintaining Honor Behind the Screen
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The article discusses the growing problem of electronic sexual harassment occurring on digital platforms, referred to as a "silent epidemic" within educational institutions.
- It argues that digitalization without proper ethics creates a false sense of anonymity, enabling vulgar comments and the objectification of women.
- The piece emphasizes that Islamic teachings, particularly the Quran's Surah An-Nur, place the primary responsibility on men to control their gaze and desires (Ghadul Bashar) to prevent such harassment, rather than solely focusing on women's attire.
Republika, as a publication committed to upholding Islamic values and societal well-being, views the rise of electronic sexual harassment as a deeply concerning trend that erodes the very foundation of our educational institutions. Campuses, envisioned as cradles of civilization and character development, are increasingly becoming sites where digital anonymity shields perpetrators of harassment.
The campus is supposed to be constructed as the womb of civilization; a kawah candradimuka where intellectuality is honed and noble character is forged. However, these days, we are forced to witness a heart-wrenching irony. There is a 'silent epidemic' gnawing at the essence of our education from within, namely the proliferation of electronic-based sexual harassment phenomena hiding behind the digital screen.
This phenomenon, termed a "silent epidemic," exploits the "illusion of anonymity" fostered by digitalization. It allows for the proliferation of vulgarity and the demeaning of women's honor, actions that are fundamentally contrary to the principles of syariah and humanity. We must recognize that such behavior constitutes a form of dehumanization, degrading the dignity that our Creator has bestowed upon every individual.
Digitalization without etiquette has created an 'illusion of anonymity' where many feel safe when making vulgar comments, sharing inappropriate images, or making a woman's honor a subject of ridicule. Yet, in the balance of Sharia and humanity, such jokes are a real form of dehumanization, an effort to degrade human dignity which is actually glorified by the Creator.
Crucially, our analysis, drawing from the Quranic text, particularly Surah An-Nur, shifts the focus from blaming victims to emphasizing male responsibility. Before instructing women on modesty, the Quran commands men to "restrain their gaze and guard their private parts." This principle of Ghadul Bashar, in the digital age, extends to disciplined visual engagement with screens. It is a call to control one's desires, which are the root of such misconduct, rather than using a woman's clothing as a pretext for harassment.
Restrain their gaze and guard their private parts; that is purer for them.
Furthermore, the principle of Sadd ad-Dzara'i, or "blocking the means" to potential harm, is relevant here. While not intended to restrict freedom, it serves as a crucial element of caution (Ihtiyath). From our perspective, ensuring a safe and respectful digital environment requires a collective effort, grounded in ethical teachings, that prioritizes the control of male impulses and fosters a culture of respect, thereby safeguarding the honor and dignity of all.
The eye is the first gateway to heart disease, which can later lead to immoral actions.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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