The transition to a “digital-centric world” aims to create a new religion by harming Abrahamic religions, especially Islam, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said today, quoted by Anadolu Agency.
“The digital movement aims to create a new artificial religion by targeting and undermining all Abrahamic religions, especially Islam,” Erdogan said in a speech to the Seventh Religious Council in the Turkish capital, Ankara.
Erdogan said that when Muslims connect with their spiritual roots, it “worries the civilized world,” and he said Muslims are under attack not only physically, but also spiritually and intellectually.
He added that these attacks have intensified significantly in recent years, after gaining significant momentum in the last century, BTA writes.
It is clear who is trying to exterminate Muslims by committing mass murders in Palestine, Gaza, Lebanon and other Muslim lands, the Turkish president said.
He stated that the “hidden and insidious enemy” that attacks Muslims and Islamic values worldwide is causing far more damage than that being done in Gaza by using “all possible means and methods, but most of all waging its war through the media and more recently through social networks’.
Erdogan also called for measures to protect Muslim values from falling into “digital belief systems”.
“Urgent measures must be taken and implemented to protect all Muslim values from digital belief systems,” he added.
What are the potential risks of digital technology on traditional faith practices according to Erdogan?
Interview with Erdogan on Digital Religion and Traditional Faiths
Time.news Editor: Good day, everyone! Today, we have a special guest, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, known for his influential perspectives on both politics and religion. Mr. President, thank you for joining us.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
Editor: You recently made headlines with your remarks about the transition to a “digital-centric world” and its potential impact on traditional religions, particularly Islam. Can you elaborate on what you mean by a “new religion”?
Erdogan: Certainly. What I see happening is an increasing reliance on digital technologies that often undermines traditional spiritual values. This shift is not merely technological—it’s a cultural change that possesses the potential to redefine people’s belief systems. It can create a new ideology that may challenge centuries-old religions, especially the Abrahamic faiths, which have guided societies for millennia.
Editor: That’s a compelling perspective. However, many argue that technology can also be a tool for the promotion and continuation of faith. How do you reconcile this dichotomy?
Erdogan: It’s true that technology offers avenues for sharing religious teachings and promotes community. However, it’s also important to recognise that the digital world can dilute spiritual experiences, leading individuals away from deep-rooted practices and beliefs. We must be cautious about the impacts of social media and digital platforms that may emphasize superficial engagement rather than authentic faith.
Editor: This raises the question of the identity crisis faced by many in the digital age. Do you think that this digital transformation contributes to feelings of isolation or disconnection from traditional faith communities?
Erdogan: Absolutely. Many who immerse themselves in the digital realm may find a false sense of community online, yet feel a profound disconnection from the rituals and traditions of their faith. When the essence of a community is reduced to likes and shares, the depth of those relationships and shared beliefs diminishes.
Editor: So, how should leaders and communities navigate this shift?
Erdogan: We need to engage critically with technology. Faith leaders must adapt and utilize digital platforms to communicate their messages. At the same time, we must encourage individuals to maintain personal connections with their faith and communities. This involves educational programs, discussions, and initiatives blending technology with the teachings of Islam and other faiths.
Editor: There’s a growing conversation around digital ethics when it comes to technology’s influence on society. What role do you see religion playing in shaping these ethical discussions?
Erdogan: Religion has an essential role to play. The core values of Abrahamic religions—such as compassion, honesty, and patience—can provide a moral compass in a rapidly changing digital landscape. We need to emphasize that technology should serve humanity, not the other way around. Embedded within these religions are the messages that can guide us toward ethical digital practices.
Editor: Your insights highlight a critical intersection of faith and technology. Before we conclude, what message would you like to share with those who might feel conflicted about their faith in the digital age?
Erdogan: I would encourage them to seek balance. Engage with technology thoughtfully, but don’t lose sight of the sacred. Embrace the teachings of your faith, seek community both online and offline, and remember that technology should enhance, not replace, spiritual experiences. faith is about connection—to ourselves, to each other, and to the divine.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. President, for your thoughtful insights on such a pressing issue in our modern world. We appreciate your time and perspective!
Erdogan: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this. It’s crucial we have these conversations to guide our future.