Digital Piety and Preaching: The Role of Social Media in Shaping Islamic Practices and Discourses in Bangladesh

Abstract

This paper explores the mediatization of Islam through the lens of piety and preaching on social media in Bangladesh. It investigates how the digital realm influences religious practices, particularly focusing on Waz-Mahfil, a traditional form of Islamic sermon that has gained significant traction online. The study delves into the role of social media on religious consciousness, examining how digital platforms facilitate the spread of Islamic teachings and foster religious engagement. It also addresses the dual role of online Islamic discourse in promoting both peaceful religious values and political agendas, as well as its potential to intricate violence against minorities. The paper highlights the complex interplay between technology, religion, and politics in Bangladesh, emphasizing the need for balanced digital literacy to mitigate online extremism and encourage harmonious coexistence. The findings underscore the transformative effects of mediatization on Islam, shaping both individual piety and collective religious expression in contemporary Bangladesh.