The digital transformation of sufi and ethical concepts in the age of communication

This thesis explores the impact of digitalization on individuals' perception of moral and spiritual values and analyzes how Sufi and ethical concepts are restructured through digital narrative formats such as animation and podcasts. The starting point of this study stems from the need to evaluate the pedagogical and thematic adequacy of content developed especially for children in digital media environments. The significance of the study lies in the simplified presentation of traditional Sufi concepts through contemporary digital tools and the creation of qualified content that contributes to children's individual spiritual development. In this context, six concepts were structured in animation format (prayer, servitude, love, patience, gratitude, and reliance on God), while nine concepts were presented through podcast format (sincerity, piety, time – ibn al-waqt, self-vigilance, uprightness, humility, modesty, repentance, and self-accountability). Each concept was simplified with pedagogical sensitivity, supported by verses from the Qur'an and prophetic traditions, and restructured through storytelling with a language appropriate for children. All scripts were originally written by the researcher, and the voiceovers were jointly conducted by the researcher and the thesis advisor. The research was designed according to a qualitative research pattern, and the data were interpreted using content analysis. The theoretical framework was constructed by drawing on both classical Sufi literature and contemporary digital media theories. The findings revealed that digital narrative formats-particularly animation and podcast content-serve as effective tools in helping children comprehend religious and moral concepts. The visual and auditory elements of the content capture children's attention, while the narratives contribute to the internalization and long-term retention of these concepts. As a result, the study demonstrates that digital media content can be effectively utilized in spiritual education and that it is possible to develop original digital models in this field.