Guarding Blessings in a Digital Age: Lessons from Prophet Yusuf AS
In today’s digital age, the urge to share every aspect of our lives on social media platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp has become almost second nature. From the food we eat, the milestones we achieve, to the places we visit, the digital showcase of our lives is endless.
However, as Muslims, it’s crucial to reflect on the wisdom of our actions through the lens of the Qur’an and Sunnah, especially in the context of sharing personal achievements and blessings.
The story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) offers a profound lesson in this regard. Allah tells us in the Qur’an: Ayah: 12:5 Arabic: قَالَ يَا بُنَيَّ لَا تَقْصُصْ رُؤْيَاكَ عَلَىٰ إِخْوَتِكَ فَيَكِيدُوا لَكَ كَيْدًا ۖ إِنَّ الشَّيْطَانَ لِلْإِنسَانِ عَدُوٌّ مُّبِينٌ
Translation: He said, “O my son, do not relate your vision to your brothers or they will contrive against you a plan. Indeed, Satan is to man a clear enemy.”
This verse highlights the advice given by Prophet Yaqub (Jacob) to his son Yusuf, cautioning him against sharing his dream with his brothers, fearing their jealousy and the potential harm it could bring. This lesson extends to our lives today, reminding us to be cautious about what we share and with whom.
The concept of the ‘evil eye’ is also recognized in Islam, where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The evil eye is real,… ” This hadith underscores the importance of being mindful of the envy that public displays of our blessings can provoke in others, potentially leading to harm.
Moreover, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us to seek protection from envy and the evil eye through various supplications and practices, emphasizing the need for spiritual precautions in our daily lives.
In light of these teachings, it’s wise to exercise discretion and humility when sharing personal news and achievements on social media. While it’s natural to want to share our happiness with others, doing so excessively can inadvertently invite envy and harm. Instead, we should focus on expressing gratitude to Allah for His blessings and share our news with those who genuinely wish us well.
Be selective about what we share and with whom, always seeking Allah’s protection and being mindful of the potential consequences of oversharing. In conclusion, while social media offers a platform to connect and share with others, it’s crucial to remember the lessons from the Qur’an and Sunnah about the dangers of envy and the evil eye. By taking precautions, seeking Allah’s protection, and being sensible about what we share, we can safeguard our blessings and maintain a healthy balance in our digital expressions of joy and achievement
