A Study on the Role of the Media and Its Effects on the Identity of Muslims (Part 42)
Historical Interaction Between Religion and Media
Historical studies indicate that the media have played a pivotal role in strengthening religiosity rather than merely serving as a platform for it. It is essential for both the bearers of religious messages and the agents of media to recognize each other’s capacities and utilize them effectively to enhance human understanding of the world around them.
Research shows that media has been foundational to religion throughout various historical periods. The connection between the two can be traced back to ancient times, including the earliest narratives, wall writings, and stone inscriptions. The writing of the Old and New Testaments symbolizes thousands of years of interaction between religion and communication. Similarly, the influence of religion in art, manuscripts, and paintings has persisted for many years.
The essence of monotheistic religions lies in the divine message entrusted to the prophets for dissemination to the people. Allah’s message, especially in Islam, was conveyed using the most effective means of communication available at the time—eloquent speech that utilized all expressive capabilities and artistic methods. The use of parables, stories, and historical narratives in a book aimed at calling people to Allah demonstrates the importance of utilizing all appropriate tools and, when necessary, adapting their use to communicate the divine message.
The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) employed the best communication methods of his era to share this divine message. He sent trained and exemplary Sahaba to various cities and regions to spread the message of Islam. He invited leaders of both large and small governments to embrace Islam, utilizing all available means of communication at that time. The mosque, the call to prayer (Azan), sermons (khutbah), letters, and face-to-face conversations were pivotal in establishing a strong internal and community-centric communication framework for Islamic society. Similar methods existed in other religions as well.
Religion perceives the media from two perspectives: as a tool for transmitting and disseminating its message and as a framework for observing the ethical imperatives of human life. In other words, religion, through its rulings, influences both the function and content of the media.
Thus, any definition of religion encompasses a form of message. The essence of religion lies in its insights, and its outcomes are manifested in actions and inclinations. Consequently, expansionism is an inherent characteristic of religion, which seeks to inform people how to think and behave—objectives that can only be achieved by reaching an audience. The nature of thought and belief is closely linked to its dissemination and expansion; a belief that does not aim to reach an audience is either doubtful of its correctness or indifferent to its longevity.
This is why the concept of religion is intrinsically tied to the notions of Prophethood and preaching. Islam views itself as a message sent to receptive hearts, with each believer encouraged to act as a “prophet” or “messenger” for all of humanity. Every individual is invited to hear, accept, and further propagate this message. Consequently, religion sees the media as a vital channel for sustaining life and spreading its teachings.
The media serves as a loudspeaker amplifying the voice of religion, which is why it is held in high regard. Throughout history, human and divine religions have aimed to legislate rites and collective worship, promote the sharing and learning of sacred teachings, and encourage the construction of religious sites—all reflecting religion’s interest in leveraging the capabilities of the media. This tradition persists in modern media as well.
By admin2
