Prophetic Etiquette for Social Media Users

  Use Social Media Prophetically

Bismillah,

In a world where social media is a constant presence, it’s easy to get swept away by the noise, distractions, and the constant urge for validation. But how can we, as creative Muslim entrepreneurs, use social media in a way that aligns with our values and enhances our productivity? The answer lies in the timeless wisdom of the Prophet ﷺ.

In his teachings, the Prophet ﷺ provided us with principles that, when applied, can help us navigate the digital world with grace, mindfulness, and intention. Social media is a powerful tool—if used correctly, it can foster creativity, build relationships, and even open doors to business opportunities. But used mindlessly, it can become a source of stress, comparison, and distraction.

Let’s explore the Prophetic etiquettes that can help you transform your relationship with social media and align your online presence with your faith.

1. Focus on What Benefits You

The Prophet ﷺ reminded us, “Focus on and seek what benefits you.” (Sahih Muslim). This is especially crucial when it comes to social media, where information is abundant but not all of it is beneficial.
The Hack:

• Follow accounts that inspire growth, creativity, and positivity.

• Avoid engaging with content that fuels negativity, jealousy, or time-wasting.

• Curate your feed so that every post and interaction brings value to your life, whether in business, personal growth, or spirituality.

2. Guard Your Tongue & Your Thoughts

The Prophet ﷺ said, “From the excellence of a person’s Islam is that they leave that which does not concern them.”(Tirmidhi). Social media often invites us into conversations or debates that are not only unproductive but also damaging to our peace of mind and faith.
The Hack:

• Be mindful of what you say and share online. Your words are powerful, and on social media, they can echo far beyond what you imagine.

• Engage in discussions that contribute positively to the community and avoid idle gossip or controversial debates that drain your energy.

• Practice intentional silence—sometimes, not engaging is the most powerful way to protect your peace.

3. Use Social Media to Uplift Others

Social media isn’t just about building your personal brand; it’s also a platform to build others up. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged kindness, empathy, and giving back.
The Hack:

• Share uplifting content that benefits others—whether it’s business tips, motivation, or reminders of Allah’s mercy.

• Amplify the voices of others, especially those in your community, by sharing their work, supporting their initiatives, and leaving positive comments.

• Practice gratitude and show appreciation publicly—whether it’s acknowledging the hard work of a fellow entrepreneur or thanking Allah for the blessings you’ve received.

4. Be Mindful of Your Time

The Prophet ﷺ taught us to manage our time wisely, as it is one of the greatest blessings we have. Yet, with social media’s endless scroll, it’s easy to lose track of time and become unproductive.
The Hack:

• Set specific times for checking social media, and stick to them. Use timers or apps to help manage your usage.

• Focus on the work that truly matters—your business, your family, your personal development.

• Remind yourself: "The believer is one who is conscious of time and maximizes it for good." (Inspired by the Qur'an and Hadith).

5. Protect Yourself from Harmful Influence

The digital space can expose us to harmful content, negative influences, and unrealistic comparisons. The Prophet ﷺ warned us to avoid things that could harm our hearts and minds.
The Hack:

• Block or unfollow accounts that negatively impact your mental or spiritual well-being.

• Limit exposure to content that promotes materialism, vanity, or haram activities.

• Use social media as a tool to reinforce your values—not to dilute them. Keep your intentions pure and your heart grounded in faith.

6. Intentions Matter

The Prophet ﷺ said, “Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will be rewarded according to what they intended.” (Sahih al-Bukhari). This hadith is a reminder that even our online presence should be intentional.
The Hack:

• Before posting, ask yourself: What is my intention behind this post? Is it to seek validation, or is it to inspire and educate others?

• Ensure your content reflects your true self—your creativity, your business, and your passion—while aligning with Islamic values.

• Avoid the temptation of showing off (riya’) or seeking fame. Instead, focus on using social media as a platform for service and purpose.

Tips:

Bringing It All Together: A Prophetic Social Media Mindset

As Muslim entrepreneurs, our goal is to excel in every aspect of our lives—professionally, spiritually, and personally. Social media can either enhance or hinder that journey. By embracing the etiquettes of the Prophet ﷺ, we can navigate the digital world with confidence, integrity, and purpose.

Just as in our daily lives, we need a routine for our online activities. A routine that centers around meaningful connections, growth, and service to others—while protecting our hearts from distractions and harm.

So, what's your intention with social media today?
Let’s use it as a tool to connect with others, share goodness, and reflect the beauty of our faith.

Until next time,
Much Blessing

Sarah

P.S. Join me on our journey of intentional social media use and creative entrepreneurship. Let's grow together in this digital age, grounded in our values. Feel free to reply with your thoughts or share this with a fellow creative Muslim entrepreneur who would benefit from these reminders.