How do we help children understand that leaving hurtful comments on a stranger’s post is still accountable in the sight of Allah Almighty? 

Parenting Perspective 

Bridging the Digital and Real World 

Help your child understand that words cause real harm, even if they cannot see the person’s reaction. A useful exercise is to ask them how they would feel if someone said the same hurtful words to their face. This helps them connect the anonymous comment to a real human being with genuine feelings, closing the gap between online actions and real-world impact. 

Kindness Knows No Strangers 

Clarify that good manners and kindness are universal principles, not just reserved for friends and family. Every person, whether an online stranger or a close friend, is created by Allah and deserves to be treated with respect. The anonymity of the internet does not provide an exemption from our moral and spiritual responsibilities. 

The Lasting Nature of Digital Words 

Emphasise that the digital world has a long memory. Hurtful comments can be screenshotted, shared widely, and can exist online long after the original post is deleted. This permanent digital footprint makes it even more critical to pause and think carefully before writing or posting, ensuring that one’s words are constructive and not destructive. 

Demonstrating Respectful Engagement 

Children are keen observers and learn from their parents’ online conduct. If they witness you engaging in digital spaces with respect and dignity, even when you disagree with someone, they are far more likely to adopt the same behaviour. Your actions model the importance of respectful interaction in all contexts. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that every action, visible or hidden, is witnessed by Allah Almighty and will be accounted for. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Qaf (50), Verse 18: 

‘Not a word does he utter but that with him is an observer prepared [to record]…‘ 

This powerful verse serves as a direct reminder that nothing we say goes unnoticed. Every comment typed into a screen is recorded by attendant angels and will be presented on the Day of Judgement. 

This concept is further emphasised by the severe consequences of careless speech. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, 1514, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A servant may say a word without thinking about it, by which he will slip into the Hellfire further than the distance between the east and the west.‘ 

This profound warning illustrates that even a single thoughtless or hurtful comment carries immense spiritual weight. It impresses upon a child the critical importance of mindful, kind, and considered speech at all times, both online and offline.