I. Introduction: The Step of Youth in the Rhythm of Time
The modern era, with its dizzying speed of technology and the dominance of social media, has fundamentally changed the lifestyle of young people. Today, being young is not just a matter of physical age; it also means being able to find direction in an overwhelming flood of information, fighting for identity, and confronting a spiritual void. In this article, we will deeply analyze the psychological, social, religious, and technological challenges that contemporary youth face, as well as possible solutions.
II. In the Heart of the Digital Age: What Has Youth Lost?
Although digital technology provides countless opportunities, it has also led to certain losses among the youth:
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Identity crisis: Young people are caught between their real selves and the virtual selves they present online. The image they create on social media often overshadows their true identity.
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Loss of time and scattered attention: Short-form content like TikTok and Instagram Reels weakens the ability to develop long-term focus and concentration.
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Decrease in real communication: Especially in urban environments, youth increasingly avoid face-to-face conversations and struggle with emotional expression.
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Depression and self-esteem issues: The feeling of “I’m not good enough” arises from constant comparison to the "perfect lives" portrayed on social media.
"O young people! Whoever among you is able to marry, let him marry, for it helps to lower the gaze and guard one’s chastity." (Hadith – Bukhari, Muslim)
III. Value Shifts: The Clash of Modernity with Religion and Morality
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Religion seen as conflicting with personal life: Youth tend to distance themselves from religion due to its perception as a set of strict prohibitions.
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Rising internal conflicts: On one side stands the ideology of free self-expression, and on the other the call to control the ego. This often results in intense inner struggle.
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Moral relativism: In an age where “everything is normalized,” youth struggle to define what is right and what is wrong.
“Indeed, Allah has inscribed faith in the hearts of the believers and strengthened them with a spirit from Himself.” (Surah Al-Mujadila, 22)
IV. Education and Influence: What Modern Schooling Fails to Offer the Youth
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Personality formation: The education system is heavily knowledge-based, but lacks life lessons that shape values and identity.
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Lack of role models: Modern society presents aesthetic, trendy, and often meaningless figures as heroes. True moral role models — scholars, teachers, sages — are rarely highlighted in the media.
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Lack of critical thinking: Youth either accept everything in the flood of information without question or become indifferent to all of it.
V. Spiritual Void and the Search: What Are Young People Looking For?
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Search for meaning: Today's youth don’t just chase success, money, and fame. Deep inside, many ask the question: “Why am I alive?”
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Desire to be seen and heard: Young people want to be noticed and understood, both in their social circles and within their families. Sometimes, this need can lead them down the wrong path.
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Spiritual support: Faith, prayer, and spirituality help youth achieve inner stability when they engage with them sincerely.
According to a 2023 Pew Research Center study, only 28% of young adults aged 18–29 regularly perform religious rituals — showing that the search for faith remains a current issue.
VI. The Way Forward: Building Bridges Between Modernity and Religion
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Reframing Islam: Islam should not be presented to youth merely as a system of prohibitions, but as a wise and holistic path that guides all aspects of life.
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Preaching in digital spaces: Platforms like YouTube, podcasts, and social media should be used to present religion in a more attractive and interactive way that resonates with the youth.
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Unity of family and school: Families and the education system must work together to fill the internal voids in youth with the right values and sources.
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The psychological side of Islam: Concepts such as repentance, patience, and gratitude should be conveyed in ways that highlight their positive impact on emotional well-being.
VII. Conclusion: Young Souls Are Still Searching
Today’s youth are in the midst of an invisible search. Sometimes in a post on social media, sometimes in a silent tear, or a moment of quiet — they ask the question, “Who am I?” The answer lies not only in technology or modernity but also in roots, values, faith, and spirituality. Youth need more than just advice — they need communication, understanding, and companionship. Because while times may change, the young soul is still searching for its true place.
Your Thoughts Matter to Us:
In your opinion, what values has modern youth lost, and what are they trying to find? What does it feel like to be young in the digital era?
Share your thoughts with us — we await you in the comments.
Original article for shefeq.com — all rights reserved.