آن لائن بد اخلاقی اور منفی تبصرے: سیرت النبی صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم کی روشنی میں رہنمائی

Digital Misbehavior and Unethical Speech: Guidance from the  Seerah of the Prophet (PBUH)

Abstract

In the contemporary digital era, social media has revolutionized human communication by allowing individuals to express opinions, share experiences, and engage with a global audience in real-time. However, this ease of access and freedom of speech has also opened doors to various forms of unethical and harmful communication, including negative comments, personal insults, slandering, backbiting, and character assassination. These digital behaviors, while normalized in many online spaces, pose serious moral and spiritual challenges, especially within the Muslim community.

The proliferation of social media has redefined human interaction, offering a powerful platform for communication and expression. However, this digital liberty has also facilitated the spread of unethical discourse, including negative comments, personal attacks, slander, and misinformation. This paper explores these phenomena from an Islamic ethical framework, rooted in the Qur’an and the Sunnah. It aims to answer the fundamental research question: What guidance does Islam provide regarding the ethical use of speech and interaction in digital environments such as social media? By analyzing classical Islamic teachings on speech, manners (adab), and social responsibility, the study critiques the rising culture of verbal aggression in online spaces. The paper also outlines the types of negative behaviors common on social media and contrasts them with prophetic models of communication. Ultimately, it offers practical recommendations for Muslims to uphold integrity, avoid harm, and embody Islamic values in their digital conduct