Loading ...The Influence of Spiritual Trends Among Gen Z Arabs in the West
By: Layla Mahmoud / Arab America Contributing Writer
In recent years, a shift has emerged among Gen Z Arabs in the West as many explore spirituality beyond traditional religious practices. From various religious interpretations to mindfulness, these trends prompt us to consider deeper questions about identity, belonging, and belief in a rapidly changing world. Layla Mahmoud, Arab America contributing writer, dives into this new perspective on religion and spirituality among Arab youth by uncovering what’s fueling this new spiritual curiosity and how it is reshaping cultural expectations.
A Generational Reimagining of Faith
For Gen Z Arabs in the West, religion no longer follows a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, spirituality has become a more fluid space. Young Arabs have begun blending cultural heritage with personal experiences and modern perspectives. Many are choosing to reform their relationship with faith by seeking a more individualized, less traditional connection to their beliefs. Rather than rejecting Islam or Christianity outright, many are reinterpreting their beliefs, and often mix them with practices like meditation or affirmations. This personalization reflects a generation that is not afraid to question and rework what they’ve inherited.
Deconstructing Without Disrespecting
Unlike older generations, Gen Z often engages in a process of “deconstruction”—a term widely used on TikTok and Instagram to describe reevaluating religious beliefs without abandoning them. For Arab youth, this can be a delicate process. Many were raised in homes where religion is deeply tied to family and culture. Yet Gen Z Arabs are constantly asking, “Is this belief truly mine—or just something I inherited?”. This point of view doesn’t always lead to disbelief, but often to reinterpretation. For example, a more compassionate view of God, a rethinking of gender roles, etc.
The Role of the Internet in Spiritual Discovery
The digital world plays a powerful role in reshaping spiritual identity. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and other social media offer spaces for open conversations that would be considered taboo at home. On these platforms, young Arabs can hear stories from other Muslims their age, progressive imams, and more. Algorithms then amplify this exploration. For example, a young Arab girl searching for anxiety relief may stumble upon meditation videos, Islamic mindfulness channels, or spiritual TikTokers who blend Islamic thought with positive psychology. This causes a change in perspective; spirituality is not just a practice, it’s a shared journey.
Cultural Guilt and Silent Rebellion
Spiritual trends among Gen Z Arabs also reflect a quiet resistance. Many young Arabs, especially women, feel the pressure of religious expectations due to culture: to dress a certain way, marry early, or prioritize family over self. Embracing nontraditional forms of spirituality can be a subtle form of rebellion. One that doesn’t scream rejection, but rather whispers, “I need space to breathe”. Practices like journaling or reading spiritual self-help books become acts of self-preservation and self-care. Yet this also brings guilt and raises questions like: “Am I a bad Muslim?” “Will my parents understand?” These questions haunt many, even as they explore new paths.
Islam, but Make It Mindful
One of the most interesting shifts is not away from Islam, but toward a more personalized version of it. Gen Z Arabs are increasingly drawn to practices rooted in dhikr (remembrance), or prayer that emphasizes presence over performance. Some create hybrid rituals, such as doing wudu before yoga, or setting intentions during Ramadan. This fusion of old practices and modern twists is not about abandoning faith, but making it resonate. Spirituality becomes less about following rules and more about genuine connection.
Therapy, Healing, and Breaking Intergenerational Trauma
Mental health and spirituality are deeply linked for many Gen Z Arabs. After generations of stigma around therapy, this generation is boldly embracing healing. In doing so, many recognize the trauma passed down through war, displacement, or authoritarian parenting, often masked in religious dialouge. Some use spiritual tools like affirmations or gratitude journaling alongside therapy. These trends reflect a desire for wholeness, for a version of belief that heals rather than hurts.
From Shame to Sacred
For Gen Z Arabs in the West, spirituality is no longer about blind obedience, it’s about self-preservation. Whether it’s wearing the hijab on their own terms or finding God through nature, young Arabs are carving space for more honest faith. This spiritual exploration is deeply personal, usually hidden, and not without conflict. But it also signifies hope, that of a generation seeking to merge tradition with truth and depth.
Sources:
- Pew Research Center, “The Future of World Religions,” 2017 https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2015/04/02/religious-projections-2010-2050/?utm
- Maha Elgenaidi – Islamic Networks Group (ING): Profile highlighting her advocacy for Muslim identity and outreach in America
https://ing.org/muslim-american-maha-elgenaidi-on-advocacy-and-experience/?utm - YouTube: “Reflections by Imam Suhaib Webb,” “Spirituality and Islam”
https://www.youtube.com/ImamSuhaibWebb
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