Social media transforms religious learning, but context is key

Social media has revolutionized the dissemination of religious knowledge, allowing individuals to access religious studies easily via smartphones. Hanif Haron, chairman of the Darul Hadis Al-Filfilaniyyah Foundation, notes this shift opens vast opportunities for people to engage with religious teachings.

Previously, attending mosques or religious institutions was necessary for learning. Now, thousands of lectures and discussions are available digitally. Hanif acknowledges this has a dual nature: positive access to knowledge, but also the challenge of understanding complex religious topics through short, decontextualized clips. This "instant knowledge" can harm religious understanding if not supplemented by proper learning processes.

In Islamic tradition, religious understanding is built through continuous learning under authoritative guidance, not just information. Hanif stresses the importance of referring to scholars when uncertain. He also recognizes social media's positive impact on Islamic outreach, helping many discover the Quran, Hadith, and other religious sciences through creative digital content. It also bridges the gap between religious institutions and the public, rapidly spreading information about lectures, study sessions, and charitable activities.

However, the sheer volume of religious information online presents a significant challenge. Hanif emphasizes that the ability to evaluate sources is now more critical than the ability to find information. He also notes a trend where social media "preachers" gain authority based on popularity, contrasting with the historical Islamic recognition of scholars based on extensive knowledge, diligent study, and peer acknowledgment. This is particularly concerning for matters of faith (aqidah).