The Impact of Social Media During Ramadan

It is this global feeling of togetherness that social media has had a significant impact on. Muslims have embraced using platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to spread their positive messages. Words such as hungry, happy, love, and God were mentioned the most in the overall online conversation. Muslims are also taking this opportunity to raise awareness of fellow Muslims in a less fortunate position.  The hope is that the global community will rally together to contribute (whether financially or in prayers) to making these Muslims lives better. 

 

One of the major trending topics during Ramadan was the 12 day fast of Anna Hazare (74 years old) – an Indian social activist. Known as the modern day Gandhi, Anna’s fast was an act of perseverance in the fight against corruption that is rife throughout the Indian government. Anna’s name remained a trending topic in India, resulting in the international community applying pressure on the Indian government to listen to Anna’s demands.  

 

Another great example of social media having a significant effect on the Muslim community is the Facebook Page of Mufti Ismail Menk. Mufti Menk is a religious leader originating from Harare and has gathered a massive following in South Africa. His ability to interpret the Holy Quran has inspired many Muslims to take a deeper interest in their religion. With 15 375 likes on his Facebook page, Mufti Menk receives high levels of engagement with the daily posts he puts up. On average, he receives 650 likes and 55 comments per post. This re-inforces the fact that content is king and remains the most important ingredient in growing and maintaining an online community. 

 

Ramadan poses a great opportunity for Muslims to use social media to show the global community the beauty that can be found in Islam. 

 

A few Muslim fundamentalists will grab the main headlines and cause the wrong global perception that Islam is full of wicked people. Thanks to social media, individual Muslims now have the opportunity to start shaping the conversation amongst their followers to spread the true values and beliefs of Islam.