Scholars studying Islam and analyzing the post-millennial generation suggest that the recent attack by Hamas on Israel has led to increased doubts and fear of Islam among Americans.
Surprisingly, instead of distancing themselves from Islam, many Americans of other religions have become curious and interested in the ideology behind the attack, leading to a surge in sales of the Qur'an.
Elad Ben David, an expert on Islam in the United States, believes that the 9/11 attacks served as a global declaration of Islam, prompting Muslim leaders to condemn the attacks and promote Islam as a religion of peace.
In the years following 9/11, Muslim preachers have effectively utilized social media platforms, particularly TikTok, to spread Islam in a positive and peace-loving manner.
American youth, particularly females, have embraced TikTok as a platform to engage with the Qur'an and have shown enthusiasm for its content, with some even converting to Islam.
The desire for meaning in life has led American youth to explore different religions, with Islam gaining significant attention.
The increased interest in Islam among American youth challenges the prevailing Islamophobia and highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of the religion.
The Qur'an has become a best-selling book in the United States, indicating a growing curiosity and openness towards Islam.
The positive portrayal of Islam on social media platforms has played a significant role in attracting American youth and dispelling misconceptions about the religion.
The appeal of Palestinian resilience
Megan Rice, an African-American woman, showcased her admiration for Islam and the steadfastness of the Palestinian people through a blog on TikTok.
Rice promptly initiated the "International Religious Book Club" on TikTok, enabling users with no prior knowledge to study the Qur'an alongside her.
In a short span of time, Rice embraced Islam and began wearing the hijab, joining a growing trend among Generation Z who find resonance in the Qur'an's expression of progressive values, freedom, socialism, social solidarity, and opposition to greed and exploitation.
The Americanization of Islam has been observed, with senior Muslim preachers adopting Western attire and emphasizing their American identity.
According to Ben David, the Islamic message directed towards the American public weakened after September 11, resulting in an adaptation of Islam to fit the lifestyle of a Western secular state.
Ben David believes that Arab culture in the Middle East, rather than religion, plays a more significant role, although this connection is less apparent in America due to the cultural assimilation of second and third-generation Arab immigrants.
Dr. Liraz Margalit, a researcher in behavioral sciences in the digital age, has a contrasting perspective on the significance of American youth embracing Islam. She believes that this generation is primarily focused on "superficial" matters and is driven by the desire to gain recognition, validate their existence, and experience a sense of vitality.
However, Dr. Margalit acknowledges that not all individuals in this generation are superficial, as they are also actively seeking purpose and meaning in their lives.
In summary, while Dr. Margalit emphasizes the superficial tendencies of American youth, she also recognizes their genuine quest for significance and fulfillment.
