How Can the Quran Guide Parenting in the Digital Age?

In the digital age, where technology is advancing at a dizzying pace and profoundly impacting the lives of children and adolescents, the role of parents in raising their children has become more crucial than ever. Challenges such as digital addiction, exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and the formation of digital identities are new issues that demand a smart and foundational approach. Amidst these challenges, the Holy Quran, with its timeless and inherent teachings, can serve as the best guide for parents to raise righteous, aware, and resilient children who can withstand the harms of the digital era. The first and most significant principle emphasized by the Quran is the concept of 'Taqwa' or God-consciousness. Raising children with Taqwa at its core means that from an early age, children grow up with the belief that Allah is constantly observing their actions, whether in the real world or in the virtual space. This inner Taqwa creates a strong self-monitoring system that helps children stay on the right path even in the absence of parents, enabling them to make correct decisions when faced with inappropriate content or temptations in the digital realm. Verse 6 of Surah At-Tahrim states: "O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones..." This verse highlights the grave responsibility of parents in safeguarding their children from all forms of corruption, both material and spiritual, which undoubtedly includes the harms of the digital world. The second principle is the emphasis on 'knowledge and wisdom'. The Holy Quran repeatedly calls upon humanity to reflect, reason, and acquire knowledge. In the digital age, where information is abundant, raising children must be based on the power of discernment and critical thinking. Instead of merely forbidding, parents should teach their children how to filter information, verify the accuracy of news (as stated in Surah Al-Isra, verse 36: "And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned"), and be immune to online rumors and deceptions. This ability for critical thinking makes them resilient against phishing attempts, misinformation, and the negative influences of social media. The third principle is 'moderation and avoidance of excess'. The Quran advises moderation and avoiding extravagance in numerous verses. This principle also applies to the use of technology and digital tools. Addiction to video games, social media, or excessive video watching can lead to serious physical, psychological, and social harms. Parents must establish clear rules, reasonable time limits, and offer attractive alternatives (such as sports activities, reading, and face-to-face interactions) to guide children towards moderation in technology use. Teaching time management and prioritization are Quranic teachings that help children spend their time more beneficially. The fourth principle is 'good manners and social responsibility'. The Quran places great emphasis on good conduct, respect for others, truthfulness, and abstaining from backbiting and slander. These teachings must extend to the virtual world. Parents should teach their children that just as they must be polite and respectful in the real world, they must also behave respectfully and responsibly in the digital space. Combating cyberbullying (whether as a victim or a bystander), refraining from spreading false news or private images of others, and constructively using the digital space to promote good and help others, all stem from the ethical teachings of the Quran. The story of Luqman the Wise in the Quran, who advises his son to establish prayer, enjoin good and forbid evil, and be patient in adversity (Surah Luqman, verse 17), is a clear example of ethical upbringing and social responsibility that can guide parents in the digital age. This includes learning how to interact constructively and positively in online communities and refraining from destructive and toxic behaviors. Fifth, and no less important, is 'parents serving as practical role models'. The Quran emphasizes the importance of good deeds and the impact of behavior on others. Children emulate their parents' behavior more than any advice. If parents themselves are engrossed in their smartphones and neglect face-to-face interactions with their children, they cannot expect their children to behave differently. Parents should set a good example by limiting their own screen time, actively participating in family moments, and demonstrating enjoyment of non-digital activities. This practical approach shows children that life extends beyond screens and that human connections and constructive activities hold much higher value. Ultimately, Quranic parenting in the digital age means creating a balance between intelligent use of technology and the preservation of human and moral values. This upbringing is based on faith in God, the enhancement of knowledge and critical thinking, adherence to moderation, and the cultivation of good ethics. By relying on these principles, parents can raise children who not only benefit from the blessings of the digital age but are also resilient against its challenges and harms, remaining steadfast on their path of spiritual and moral growth. This great responsibility requires patience, persistence, and continuous awareness of digital developments, but with reliance on Allah and the guidance of the Quran, it will undoubtedly bear fruit.