The conflict in Gaza has unfolded on screens globally, creating a surge of interest in the region’s history and politics.
Social media has become a platform for learning, and an unexpected outcome is the increasing curiosity about Islam, inspired by the challenges faced by Palestinians in Gaza.
TikTok, in particular, has witnessed a rise in posts, livestreams, and discussions centered around the Qur’an.
The hashtag #Islam has gained significant popularity, accumulating over 35 billion views worldwide, with one billion views in the United States and 360 million in Canada. The majority of viewers fall within the 18-24 age group.
TikTok users, part of this online movement, share their faith journeys, reflecting on what they’ve learned and how audiences have reacted.
The crisis in Gaza has prompted many to explore Islam after witnessing expressions of Islamic faith by Gazans.
Hunter Graves, a 21-year-old college senior in Nashville, has posted videos discussing Islam over the past two months. Inspired by the resilience of Gazans, he shares insights into his faith journey, including a video in which he takes his shahada at a mosque.
Imam Muhammad Kolila from the Downtown Denver Islamic Center notes that social media is being used to spread knowledge, challenge biases, and express solidarity.
Some users draw parallels between the struggles of Palestinians, Indigenous people in North America, and South African apartheid.
This movement on social media stands in contrast to the growing anti-Muslim sentiment in the West.
While discrimination and online hate against Muslims are documented, TikTok users are actively deconstructing negative beliefs about Islam, often fueled by misinformation.
Madison from Tampa, Florida, posted a video seeking support in her journey to becoming a Muslim. The crisis in Palestine served as a catalyst for her decision, prompting self-reflection about her identity and beliefs.
Charlie Bowling, an agnostic, documents his journey listening to and reading the Qur’an, inspired by the unwavering faith he observed in Palestinians.
This online exploration of Islam echoes a phenomenon seen after the 9/11 attacks but now reaches a much wider audience through social media.
Camela Widad, who converted to Islam in 2003, acknowledges the impact of social media in humanizing Muslims and dispelling stereotypes. The faith of individuals in Gaza, as portrayed online, resonates with audiences seeking comfort and answers to existential questions.
The surge in online content has also rekindled the faith of individuals like Fatima Abdi, a fashion influencer, and Cornell Jones, who reverted to Islam three years ago.
Despite the current crisis in Gaza, TikTok serves as a platform for sharing faith experiences and fostering connections among users exploring or rediscovering Islam.
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