A Study on the Role of the Media and Its Effect on the Identity of Muslims (Part 41)
Historical Interaction of Religion and Media
The use of media in religion has a long and complex history. Different religions are classified based on their relationships with various forms of media. For instance, the expansion of religions in the modern West has been significantly influenced by the movable type printing industry. In the 20th century, several religions have developed unique relationships with mass media.
In the modern and postmodern West, Christianity has been closely linked with mass media. Given that the media of the Christian West has dominated the media landscape, this connection has been pivotal. However, the situation is gradually changing, as Christian groups were among the first publishers in Europe and North America.
Historically, all Christian groups, along with major non-Christian groups and various other religious movements in Europe and North America, have published written works, including pamphlets, brochures, magazines, and books. They have remained prolific and active in preaching programs, including Bible dissemination.
However, non-print media has not been regarded as a highly effective platform for most religions. In the 20th century, as established European and North American religions encountered the rise of mass media, Christian groups exerted considerable efforts to renew and reclaim cultural influence, a struggle that has continued unabated.
It is important to recognize that the media has always played a significant role in our religious lives. While one might think of television when hearing the term “media,” this is not the sole aspect; humans have been writing and reading for centuries. Religious texts—including the Sutras (Buddhist scriptures), the Bible (Christian scriptures), the Vedas (Hindu scriptures), the Quran and Hadith (Islamic scriptures), as well as the Tanach, Mishnah, Talmud, and Midrash (Jewish scriptures)—serve to inform us on how to think about this life and the next.
Thus, since ancient times, media has been intertwined with religion. One of the most effective ways for religions to convey their messages has been through media, particularly written forms, which served as significant mediums and messengers of their time. Consequently, the evolving relationship between religion and media has transformed into a mutual interaction rather than a one-sided influence. Scholars of religion and media increasingly focus on studying this interaction and its reception by individuals and groups engaging with media culture.
For a religion to enter people’s lives and familiarize them with its teachings, it must be spread effectively. Historically, religions have utilized various media to achieve this goal. The emergence of religion through the media platforms of its respective eras reflects the harmony between religion and these forms of communication. Nonetheless, with the advent of modern media, a new dynamic has emerged that challenges religious preachers and raises various questions. With the rise and expansion of new media—considered products of Western civilization—many researchers and experts in religious studies, along with thinkers in the social sciences, have increasingly focused on understanding the relationship between religion and media. How do these two interact? Is there compatibility and convergence between religion and the institution of media, or are they inherently in conflict?
Ultimately, the root of these questions addresses broader issues about the relationship between tradition and modernity—an exploration that exceeds the scope of this brief article.
