In the age of social media, religion has increasingly become a subject of public spectacle where individuals possessing little knowledge often engage in heated debates, not to seek truth but to prove themselves right and others wrong.
Waseem Akhter Dar
Religion has always been a source of guidance, morality, peace, and spiritual enlightenment. It teaches compassion, humility, tolerance, and respect for humanity. However, in the age of social media, religion has increasingly become a subject of public spectacle where individuals possessing little knowledge often engage in heated debates, not to seek truth but to prove themselves right and others wrong.
Recently, I came across a video circulating on social media in which a few self-proclaimed Islamic scholars were discussing religious matters. Instead of enlightening the audience, they spent most of their time throwing mud at one another, ridiculing opposing viewpoints, and desperately attempting to portray themselves as superior. Each participant claimed exclusive ownership of the truth while branding others as misguided.
Sadly, what emerged from the discussion was not wisdom, scholarship, or clarity, but confusion, hostility, and misinformation. Their exchange lacked the dignity, depth, and intellectual honesty that should characterise discussions on religion. Such debates do not strengthen faith; they weaken it by creating doubts and divisions among ordinary people who look towards scholars for guidance.
History teaches us that genuine scholars have always approached religious discourse with humility. They acknowledged the vastness of knowledge and respected differences of opinion. The truly learned do not shout, mock, or demean others. They educate, explain, and inspire through evidence, wisdom, and good conduct.
The irony of our times is that many individuals with inadequate understanding have assumed the role of preachers and mentors. They deliver sermons to thousands, influence public opinion, and shape the beliefs of impressionable minds. One must ask: what can be expected when those who themselves lack proper understanding become teachers of others? The outcome is predictable: misguided followers, unnecessary disputes, and a society divided over issues it barely comprehends.
There is a profound difference between discussions conducted by the uninformed and those held by knowledgeable people. When the uninformed debate, quarrels, ego clashes, and confusion often arise. But when educated and sincere minds engage in dialogue, solutions emerge, understanding deepens, and positive change becomes possible. Constructive discussions have the power to shape events, influence societies, and build bridges between communities.
Therefore, it is the moral responsibility of every individual to exercise caution before accepting religious teachings from anyone. We must ask ourselves: Who is speaking? What are their credentials? Have they devoted years to studying theology, jurisprudence, and religious sciences, or are they merely popular faces seeking attention and followers?
Blind allegiance has never been encouraged by any great tradition. Instead, people are urged to seek knowledge, verify information, and use reason and conscience. Before following anyone, we should research their background, examine their scholarship, and evaluate whether their words promote wisdom, unity, and compassion or merely hatred and discord.
Religion deserves reverence, not sensationalism. Matters of faith should not become arenas for personal ego, public entertainment, or social media popularity. Let us become discerning listeners, thoughtful learners, and responsible followers. Only then can we protect ourselves from those who exploit religion for recognition while possessing little understanding of the sacred responsibility they claim to bear.
In an era flooded with voices, wisdom lies not in listening to everyone, but in identifying those who truly have something worthwhile to say.
The writer is a librarian at the Department of School Education
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