We are living in a time where technology touches almost every moment of our lives. Our phones are the first things we look at when we wake up and the last things we see before sleeping. Messages, videos, virtual meetings, online communities – these are now part of our daily routine. Technology is a blessing that Allah has allowed humanity to discover, a tool that can bring ease, knowledge, and connection. But like every blessing, it comes with responsibility.
In Islam, relationships, whether with family, friends, neighbours, or colleagues, are considered a trust (amanah). The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasised kindness, listening, good speech, and fulfilling the rights of others. As technology becomes more involved in our interactions, it quietly shapes the way we practise these teachings. Understanding its influence helps us maintain the balance that Islam encourages: staying modern, but not losing our humanity.
Digital Communication and the Value of Presence
Technology has made communication easier, but it has also changed the nature of presence. We may sit with our family physically, yet our minds remain inside a screen. Islam places great value on giving full attention. The Prophet ﷺ used to turn his entire body toward those who spoke to him; he didn’t divide his attention. Today, however, a single notification can interrupt a meaningful conversation.
Digital communication is convenient, but sometimes convenience replaces connection. Texting a family member instead of speaking directly, sending a quick voice note instead of sitting down for a conversation – these may save time, but they reduce the warmth that builds strong relationships. At the same time, technology is a mercy for distant families. Parents video-calling their children abroad, friends staying in touch across continents; this is a modern blessing.
The key is intention (niyyah). If technology helps us maintain bonds, it becomes a tool of goodness. If it replaces the beauty of face-to-face warmth, we must rethink how we use it.
Attention, Distraction, and the Heart (Qalb)
The Qur’an frequently reminds us to reflect, to be mindful, and to protect the heart from distractions. Today, one of the greatest distractions we face is information overload. Notifications, updates, messages, endless scrolling; these constantly pull our attention away from the people around us.
When someone speaks to us and our eyes keep drifting to the screen, it may unintentionally make them feel unimportant. Islam teaches ihsan,excellence in behaviour, and part of ihsan is giving people the honour of your full presence.
At the same time, technology has opened access to knowledge in ways previous generations couldn’t imagine. Islamic lectures, reminders, Qur’an apps, educational content; these strengthen our understanding and improve our character. So, technology isn’t the enemy. The issue is whether it controls us or serves us. The heart should lead the device, not the other way around.
Social Media and the Mirror of the Self
Social media has reshaped how we view each other and ourselves. We see filtered parts of people’s lives – successes, happiness, achievements. Islam warns against comparison, jealousy (hasad), and showing off (riyaa). Social media often encourages all three without us realising it.
We may see someone’s life online and assume they are happier or more successful than us, forgetting that every soul has its own trials known only to Allah. This affects our relationships by creating distance based on assumptions. We may feel disconnected from a friend simply because we feel they are “doing better” based on posts.
Islam encourages sincerity and humility. Our connections should be based on reality, not the curated digital versions of people. At the same time, social media has created spaces for community support, charity drives, Islamic reminders, dua groups, and educational circles. These can strengthen faith and unity when used wisely.
Thus, the spiritual approach is balance: engaging without losing sincerity, sharing without showing off, connecting without comparing.
Technology at Work and the Boundary Between Rest and Duty
With remote work and constant connectivity, the line between personal time and work time often disappears. Islam teaches the importance of rest, moderation, and respecting one’s responsibilities toward family and community.
When we bring work into every corner of our home through laptops and phones, relationships may unintentionally suffer. A child may hesitate to talk because “Ammi or Abbu is on a call.” A friend may feel distant because messages are always replied to in a hurry.
But technology has also made it possible for people to work from home, earn a livelihood more easily, and collaborate across borders. This is sustenance (rizq) Allah provides through modern means.
Maintaining boundaries – switching off when needed, giving people their rights, and being present – protects relationships while allowing us to benefit from today’s opportunities.
Empathy, Expression, and the Loss of Human Warmth
Islam emphasises gentle speech, kindness, and emotional intelligence. Much of our communication today happens through text – short messages, emojis, quick replies. While efficient, they don’t carry tone, warmth, or depth. Misunderstandings become common. Emotions become compressed into symbols, and even a small message can be misinterpreted.
At this point, the guidance of the Qur’an becomes deeply relevant. Allah commands inSurah Bani Isra’il (17:53):
“And tell My servants to speak in the best manner. Surely, Satan sows discord between them. Indeed, Satan is ever an open enemy to mankind.”
This ayah perfectly reflects the digital age. A single misunderstood text, a rushed reply, or a harsh comment online can create conflict. Shaytan uses these moments of confusion to spark anger and distance between people. Allah’s command to “speak in the best manner” reminds us to slow down, choose our words carefully, and communicate with kindness, even through screens.
At the same time, technology has opened new ways to express ourselves – sharing feelings, asking for help, learning about mental well-being, and connecting with supportive communities. This brings good when done with sincerity and wisdom. But true empathy requires more than typing; it requires presence, patience, and listening, the qualities the Prophet ﷺ embodied so beautifully.
Wrapping-up
Technology is neither a blessing nor a burden by itself; it’s a tool that reflects the state of the heart. It can connect families or isolate them. It can spread knowledge or create distraction. It can build community or feed comparison. Islam teaches balance in all things, including how we use our devices.
If we use technology with mindfulness, intention, and sincerity, it becomes a means to strengthen our relationships and deepen our faith. But if we allow it to replace human warmth, attention, and compassion, we risk losing the very qualities that make relationships meaningful.
In a world full of screens, sometimes the most spiritual act is simply to look up, listen carefully, and be fully present with the people Allah has placed in our lives.