Adapting Islamic Studies to the Digital Age

By Nur Bakri Abd Hamid
Lecturer, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, OUM

The modern world is experiencing rapid advancements in digital technologies, which are transforming every aspect of life, including education. Islamic Studies, enriched by centuries of tradition, faces unique challenges and opportunities in this digital era. This article examines how Islamic Studies can embrace digital tools to create a seamless connection between its rich heritage and contemporary possibilities.

Advantages of Digital Technologies in Islamic Studies

Digital technologies have revolutionised access to Islamic Studies, enabling students to study Islamic narratives, histories, cultures, and texts through online courses and platforms anytime, anywhere. Furthermore, these technologies play a vital role in preserving and promoting Islamic heritage (thaqafah al-Islamiyyah). Video lessons, virtual tours of historical landmarks, and interactive multimedia materials help share the richness of Islamic culture with a global audience, cultivating greater understanding and appreciation.

As technology evolves, curricula and teaching methods in Islamic Studies must be adapted to meet the needs of digital learners. This can be achieved by integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary subjects such as science, technology, and social sciences, and adopting an interdisciplinary approach to address modern challenges. Technology, including e-learning platforms, multimedia tools, and gamified content, can enhance accessibility and engagement, particularly for younger learners. Student-centred methods such as critical thinking, discussions, and case studies should replace rote memorisation to promote deeper understanding and problemsolving abilities. Interactive lessons, online assessments, and engaging multimedia content can further create a dynamic and effective learning environment. Finally, teaching the ethical application of Islamic values like justice and compassion alongside leadership and practical life skills equips students to apply their faith in today’s context.


As technology evolves, curricula and teaching methods in Islamic Studies must be adapted to meet the needs of digital learners.


To stay effective, Islamic Studies must address global challenges such as environmental sustainability, combat misinformation and Islamophobia, and promote inclusivity and open dialogue within Islamic scholarship. Educators need training in modern teaching methods and digital tools to integrate traditional teachings and learning with contemporary approaches. Emphasising lifelong learning through initiatives like the Professional Certificate in Islamic Studies programme offered at OUM will help learners develop the flexibility to navigate a rapidly evolving world, enabling them to stay rooted in their faith and contribute meaningfully to society. As part of this adaptation, both educators and students must develop strong digital literacy skills to make the most of these tools. Mastery of online resources, critical thinking, and secure data practices have become essential for navigating modern educational spaces safely and effectively.

Yet, while digital educational platforms offer immense potential, they also introduce challenges that must be addressed. Concerns such as data security and the misuse of digital platforms for spreading harmful ideologies require thoughtful regulation and oversight. At the same time, digital technologies open doors for global collaboration, enabling Muslim communities worldwide to exchange knowledge and enrich Islamic Studies through diverse cultural perspectives. By reducing geographical and socioeconomic barriers, these tools make Islamic Studies more inclusive, reaching students in remote areas and underserved populations.

Practical Applications of Digital Technologies in Islamic Studies

For many Muslims in Malaysia, essential apps offer features that remind them of prayer times, provide tazkirah (reminders), and share basic Islamic knowledge. For instance, Muslim Pro, a popular lifestyle app among Muslims, will celebrate its 14th anniversary by introducing new activities and features. These include access to additional content such as articles, downloadable gratitude journals, and inspirational wallpapers aimed at encouraging positive reflections in daily life. These resources will be available both on the Muslim Pro app and its Instagram page.

This milestone marks a significant achievement in Muslim Pro’s mission to serve the global Muslim community. With over 150 million downloads across over 190 markets, it is regarded as the world’s most popular Muslim lifestyle app. Launched in 2009 with the goal of providing accurate prayer times, Muslim Pro has adapted to meet its users’ evolving needs, expanding into a comprehensive app serving millions worldwide.

Recognised for its accuracy, Muslim Pro was the first to offer verified prayer times for major cities around the globe. It also features the full Quran with Arabic scripts, coloured Tajweed (the art of reciting the Quran correctly), over 40 translations, and more. Users can now explore selected surahs (chapters of the Quran), and use tools to help with Quran memorisation.


Islamic Studies must address global challenges such as environmental sustainability, combat misinformation and Islamophobia, and promote inclusivity and open dialogue within Islamic scholarship.


Ask AiDeen, a feature within the app, provides support in one’s faith journey, offering information on a wide range of Islamic topics that is accessible anytime. Trained to answer questions based on the Quran and authentic hadiths (recorded sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad), Ask AiDeen ensures reliable guidance. Building on the integration of digital tools in Islamic Studies, the study of hadith has also greatly benefited from applications such as Lidwa Pustaka. Lidwa Pustaka, an Indonesian application, houses an impressive 62,000 hadith sourced from the nine major hadith collections (kutub al-tis’ah). This app stands as a vital resource for deepening the understanding of hadith and Islamic scholarship, offering accessibility and convenience in ways that traditional print resources cannot.

Conclusion

The digital era presents unprecedented opportunities to advance Islamic Studies while preserving its rich traditions. By cultivating digital literacy and addressing potential challenges, Islamic Studies can cultivate knowledgeable and compassionate individuals who contribute to cultural dialogue and peaceful coexistence with others. The collective goal of Islamic Studies and its learning communities is to make Islamic Studies inclusive and forward-looking in this dynamic digital age.