I recently created an Instagram so I can post material related to Islam only. My intention is to educate others on a variety of subjects that are pertinent to us today. As a Muslim woman, I was wondering if I should keep my followers restricted to females only?
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.
It is encouraging to note that you are conscious of your duties as a Muslim woman. May Allah Ta’ālā keep you steadfast on his Deen. Ameen.
Islam attempts to establish a system that promotes social welfare while closing all avenues that may lead to fitnah. Like any other social networking website, allowing minimal interaction between you and other men, even if it is only by allowing them to follow your Instagram posts, may lead to further interaction in the future. To understand this more clearly, would you allow yourself to hold a forum on Islamic discussions with other men?
Even though you intend to post topics relating to Islam only, there is one main factor that must be taken into consideration. The internet is an openly accessible global network allowing all to connect with each other around the world. While you intend to maintain Islamic posts, you are opening the door for others to make a connection with you.
Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said:
إِنَّ الشَّيْطَانَ يَجْرِي مِنَ الإِنْسَانِ مَجْرَى الدَّمِ
Verily, Shaitān runs through a person like the running of blood (through veins).[1]
Due to the complete anonymity and privacy one has in the online world, it allows people to step across the boundaries of Shari’ah without fear from anyone. In an online environment where one is free to engage another without a second thought, it is imperative for one to be cautious and avoid any situations where it might lead one towards fitnah. As such, it is our advice that you avoid allowing men to follow your Instagram posts.
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Bilal Mohammad
Student Darul Iftaa
USA
Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Ebrahim Desai.
[1] Sahih Al-Bukhari, 2038, The Book of I’tikāf