What is an age-appropriate way to discuss the Islamic perspective on showing off wealth or beauty online? 

Parenting Perspective 

Using Relatable, Everyday Scenarios 

Start the conversation with familiar examples, such as posting photos of a new phone, an expensive outfit, or a family holiday. Explain that while it is natural to share happy moments, the intention matters. Constantly displaying blessings in a boastful way can unintentionally create jealousy or hurt the feelings of others who may be less fortunate, which is a concern for a believer. 

Exploring the ‘Why’ Behind a Post 

Teach your child the importance of checking their intentions. Encourage them to pause and reflect before sharing by asking themselves, ‘Why do I want to post this? Is it to share joy, or is it to make others feel envious?’ This habit of self-reflection helps them align their online behaviour with Islamic values of sincerity and consideration for others. 

Grounding Self-Worth in Character 

Firmly reinforce the principle that a person’s value is not defined by their possessions, their appearance, or their lifestyle. True worth comes from their character, their kindness, their knowledge, and their relationship with Allah. This helps them build an internal sense of self-worth that is not dependent on external validation from online praise. 

Encouraging Positive and Purposeful Sharing 

Guide them towards using their online presence for good. Suggest alternative ways to post that are beneficial and uplifting, such as sharing a helpful piece of knowledge, a creative skill, or an act of kindness. This allows them to participate in social media in a way that spreads positivity rather than promoting arrogance or envy. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places immense importance on the virtue of humility and warns against the dangers of arrogance and showing off. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Luqman (31), Verse 18: 

‘And do not turn your face away from people in pride, nor walk in insolence through the earth. Indeed, Allah does not like the arrogant and boastful…‘ 

This verse teaches a timeless lesson. The act of turning one’s face away in pride is the physical equivalent of the modern digital act of posting boastfully to an online audience. It reminds children that arrogance, in any form, is displeasing to Allah. 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned that even the smallest amount of pride can have severe spiritual consequences. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 91, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘No one who has an atom’s weight of pride in his heart will enter Paradise.‘ 

This profound hadith highlights the seriousness of arrogance. It teaches children that humility is a core virtue that must be protected in all aspects of life, including our digital interactions. A boastful post, even if it seems minor, can be a reflection of pride in the heart, which is spiritually dangerous.