How can we explain the concept of haya to children in a way that makes sense in their digital world? 

Parenting Perspective 

The Islamic concept of haya is a beautiful guide for a child’s character. The key is to translate this deep spiritual value into practical, everyday terms that make sense for their online interactions. 

Define Haya in Simple, Relatable Words 

Explain haya in simple terms like self-respect and dignity. Tell them it is about making choices in our words, photos, and actions that show respect for ourselves and for Allah. It is about protecting our private life from unnecessary public exposure. 

Connect Haya to Online Behaviour 

Show them how this applies online. Haya online means not sharing things that are overly personal, make fun of others, or go against good manners. It also means choosing to look away from content that is inappropriate or harmful. 

Give Digital Examples They Understand 

Use concrete digital examples. You can discuss choosing a profile picture or writing a comment, and then ask a simple question: ‘Would you feel good if your grandparents or your teacher saw this?’ This question can act as a helpful internal guide for them. 

Model Haya in Your Own Online Use 

Your example is the most powerful teacher. Let them see you avoiding gossip online, respecting the privacy of others, and speaking with kindness. When they see you living these values, they will understand how to apply them in their own digital lives. 

This approach helps children see haya not as a restriction, but as a source of strength and self-respect. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, haya is not just shyness; it is a comprehensive quality that is considered a core part of faith itself. It guides our interactions and protects our honour. 

Haya as a Protection for the Heart 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzab (33), Verse 53: 

‘And when you ask [his wives] for something, ask them from behind a partition. That is purer for your hearts and their hearts…’ 

This reminds us that establishing respectful boundaries in our interactions, whether physical or digital, is a way of protecting the purity of our hearts and relationships. 

Haya as the Character of Islam 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 4181, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Every religion has its distinct characteristic, and the distinct characteristic of Islam is modesty (Haya’).’ 

This teaches us that haya is a foundational quality that should shape how we present ourselves in all spaces, including in the digital world. By grounding online safety in this beautiful concept, we teach our children that protecting their privacy is an act of faith.