A surprising social media trend is emerging from Turkey, a nation with a predominantly Muslim population. Young people, identified as Gen-Z, have begun posting TikTok videos that appear to playfully parody Islamic prayer, or Namaz. These clips, which often feature exaggerated prayer movements and sudden collapses, have garnered millions of views and sparked widespread discussion and concern within Muslim communities globally. Some videos show individuals smiling during prostration (sajda), a posture typically associated with deep reverence. The swift reaction online includes comments expressing worry for the youth and questioning their understanding of religious tradition. This phenomenon raises significant questions about religious identity, cultural heritage, and the evolving relationship between younger generations and established religious practices in Turkey. The country’s leadership has previously emphasized Islamic values, yet this trend suggests a growing divergence among its youth.
