Truth Before Transmission: Qur’anic Wisdom on Media and Information Literacy

Introduction

From 24 to 31 October, the world marks Global Media and Information Literacy Week; a time to reflect on how societies can navigate truth and falsehood in the digital age.

Yet, over fourteen centuries ago, the Holy Qur’an had already offered timeless principles for responsible communication and critical inquiry. In Surah al-Ḥujurāt (49:6), believers are reminded that:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِنْ جَاءَكُمْ فَاسِقٌ بِنَبَإٍ فَتَبَيَّنُوا أَنْ تُصِيبُوا قَوْمًا بِجَهَالَةٍ فَتُصْبِحُوا عَلَى مَا فَعَلْتُمْ نَادِمِينَ ﴿۶﴾

“O you who believe! If a wicked person comes to you with news, verify it carefully, lest you harm people in ignorance and then become regretful for what you have done.” (Surah al-Ḥujurāt, 49:6)

Educational Messages from the Verse for Teens and Youth

1. Don’t Assume Every News Is True

The Qur’an teaches us to begin with caution, not blind trust – especially online. Truth must be proven, not presumed.

Practical Challenge: Each time you read a shocking or emotional post, say to yourself: “This might not be true until I confirm it.”

2. Always Check the Source

Not every voice deserves the same level of trust. Real wisdom lies in asking: “Who said this, and how do they know?”

Practical Challenge: Before sharing any news this week, spend enough time checking the source’s credibility.

3. Think Before You Click or Forward

Impulsive reactions often bring regret. Reflecting on consequences is part of Islamic maturity.

Practical Challenge: Before reposting or commenting, pause and ask: “What effect could this have on others – or on me?”

4. Your Words Can Harm or Heal

Sharing unverified information can damage reputations, break friendships, or spread fear. Every message carries weight.

Practical Challenge: This week, make a conscious effort to avoid repeating or sharing anything you’re not sure about.

5. Protect Yourself from Regret

A believer is thoughtful, not reckless. Acting without reflection may cause harm you can’t undo.

Practical Challenge: Each night, review your online activity and ask: “Did I spread truth today; or confusion?”

6. Don’t Let Emotions and Rashness Guide Your Clicks

Anger or excitement often clouds judgment. The Qur’an calls for reflection before reaction.

Practical Challenge: When you read something shocking, leave it for a day before responding or commenting.

Educational Messages from the Verse for Parents

1. Use Real Stories to Teach Verification

Stories of people who acted on false news can powerfully show children the value of caution.

Practical Challenge: At dinner, share one true story where misinformation caused harm; and discuss what could have prevented it.

2. Raise Critical Thinkers

Faith and intelligence go hand in hand. Teaching children to ask good questions strengthens both.

Practical Challenge: When your child shares something they’ve seen online, ask together: “How can we check if this is real?”

3. Make Truth-Seeking a Family Habit

Families that value honesty and accuracy build trust and spiritual strength.

Practical Challenge: Create a simple “Verify Before You Believe” rule for everyone in the household.

4. Be a Model of Responsible Communication

Children learn how to speak and share from you. Show them what careful speech looks like.

Practical Challenge: When discussing news at home, explain how you check if it’s accurate.

5. Avoid Judging Others from Rumours

Backbiting often begins with unverified news. Be cautious before forming opinions.

Practical Challenge: Before criticising someone, ask yourself: “Do I really know this is true?”

Educational Messages from the Verse for Imams and Religious Leaders

1. Make Verification a Moral Duty

Highlight this verse in sermons as a foundation for ethical communication in Islam.

Practical Challenge: Dedicate a Friday talk to “The Qur’anic Ethics of Information Sharing.”

2. Address Digital Misguidance from the Pulpit

Social media misinformation can mislead communities. Religious guidance must respond to this modern challenge.

Practical Challenge: Prepare one short khutbah each month about digital responsibility.

3. Faith Is Shown Through Action, Not Words

Remind your audience that true religiosity lies in practical obedience to God’s commands; not merely in performing prayers or reciting the Qur’an.

Practical Challenge: In your next sermon, invite listeners to pause and reflect on how closely their daily actions align with this verse.