The Construction of Generation Z's Islamic Identity Through Religious Content on TikTok

Abstract

The rapid expansion of social media has significantly transformed religious practices among younger generations, particularly Generation Z. TikTok, as a short-video–based platform, functions not only as an entertainment medium but also as a crucial space for constructing Islamic identity that is visual, performative, and algorithm-driven. This study aims to analyze how Generation Z constructs Islamic identity through religious content on TikTok and to examine the role of platform affordances and algorithms in shaping religious authority and spiritual experience. Employing a qualitative approach with a digital ethnography method, data were collected through participant observation of influential Muslim content creators, multimodal analysis of visual narratives and mimetic audio, and examination of user interactions in comment sections. Data were analyzed thematically using an inductive–iterative approach. The findings reveal a significant shift from traditional, institution-based religious authority toward performance-based authority grounded in visual credibility and narrative authenticity. The study also identifies the emergence of algorithmic conspirituality, wherein TikTok’s For You Page algorithm is perceived as a divinely guided medium delivering personalized religious messages. Consequently, the Islamic identity of Generation Z on TikTok appears hybrid, fluid, and situational, emphasizing digital orthopraxy over doctrinal orthodoxy. This transformation highlights how mediatised religion reshapes modes of belief, authority, and religious subjectivity in the contemporary digital era.