Has the Quran warned about excessive use of technology?

The Holy Quran, revealed over fourteen centuries ago, naturally does not directly mention the word 'technology' or modern digital communication devices. However, what this divine book profoundly addresses is a comprehensive set of ethical, educational, and lifestyle principles that can be extended to every aspect of human life, including how we interact with scientific and technological advancements. In essence, the Quran, by laying down broad and universal concepts, provides warnings that, through inference, relate to excess in any matter, including the consumption of technology. One of the most crucial principles emphasized by the Quran is 'moderation' and the 'middle path' (Wasatiyyah). In numerous verses, God invites humanity to avoid extremism and negligence in all affairs. Excess in anything, whether eating and drinking, recreation, or even work and worship, is condemned. When we apply this principle to the use of technology, we realize that boundless immersion in the virtual world, computer games, or social media can be a clear manifestation of excess. This kind of overindulgence not only diminishes the material aspects of an individual's life (such as productivity and physical health) but also profoundly impacts their spiritual and social dimensions. In Surah Al-A'raf, verse 31, the Quran states: "...and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess." Although this verse seemingly pertains to eating and drinking, its general message is to avoid all forms of extravagance and wastefulness, which clearly can include wasting time, energy, mental health, and even social relationships due to technology overuse. Furthermore, the Quran strongly warns against 'heedlessness' (Ghaflah) and turning away from the remembrance of God. Human life, from a Quranic perspective, is a precious opportunity to move towards perfection and divine proximity. Any factor that deviates a person from this main path and causes them to be heedless of the noble purpose of creation is condemned. Excessive consumption of technology, especially when it leads to the waste of valuable time, neglect of religious and ethical duties, and detachment from family and community, is clearly an instance of heedlessness. An individual who spends countless hours in the virtual world may neglect their prayers, Quran recitation, connection with loved ones, and even attention to their physical health. In Surah Taha, verse 124, Allah says: "And whoever turns away from My remembrance – indeed, for him is a constricted life, and We will gather him on the Day of Resurrection blind." This verse is a severe warning against anything that distances a person from the centrality of remembering God, and in the current era, excessive technology use is one of the strongest factors contributing to this heedlessness. 1The issue of 'wastefulness' (Israf) is not only limited to wealth but also extends to other divine blessings such as time, health, mental capabilities, and even life opportunities. Technology is a tool that can be used for growth, elevation, and serving humanity. However, if used excessively and pointlessly, it transforms into squandering these blessings. Surah Al-Isra, verse 27, describes the wasteful as brothers of devils: "Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful." This expression indicates that extravagance and squandering are reprehensible acts, aligning with satanic temptations that lead a person away from the path of truth. The excessive waste of time on social media, purposeless games, or consumption of useless content can all fall within the scope of this wastefulness. Moreover, the Quran places significant emphasis on 'human relationships' and 'social responsibilities'. Connecting with family, maintaining kinship ties, showing kindness to neighbors, and paying attention to societal issues are key tenets of Islam. Excessive use of technology can lead to isolation, reduced real-life interactions, and weakening of social bonds. Many individuals, due to their immersion in the virtual world, become oblivious to the real world and its needs, which clearly contradicts the spirit of Quranic teachings. The Quran teaches us that we should always be benevolent and beneficial to society, avoiding isolation and indifference. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, we read: "But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world; and do good as Allah has done good to you. And do not seek corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters." This verse teaches us to strike a balance between this world and the Hereafter, and to utilize worldly resources for good and righteousness, rather than making them a means for isolation and shirking responsibilities. In conclusion, although the Quran does not explicitly mention 'technology', by establishing universal principles such as moderation, avoidance of wastefulness and heedlessness, and emphasizing individual and social responsibilities, it provides strong warnings regarding any form of excess, including the excessive use of technology. These teachings help individuals to use technology as a tool for growth, beneficial communication, and increased knowledge, rather than becoming enslaved by it and deviating from life's true path.