Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies, Iranian Broadcasting University, Tehran, Iran
2
Assistant Professor, Department of Journalism and News, Faculty of Communication and Media, IRIB University, Tehran, Iran
3
Master's degree student in Radio Production, Radio Department, Faculty of Production, University of Radio and Television, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/jmrs.2025.540063.1230
Abstract
Objective: In the era of new media, religious texts—especially the Holy Qur’an—are no longer reread solely within traditional written contexts, but are re-created in visual, cinematic, and digital formats. The objective of this article is to examine the methods of re-creating religious texts (particularly the Qur’an and Hadith) in contemporary media and to identify their capacities for conveying religious concepts in today’s world, in light of the challenges of fidelity to the sacred text and artistic innovation.
Research Methodology: Using the qualitative meta-synthesis method, 22 related studies (from Islamic and Christian sources) in the field of media and religion were subjected to critical analysis. The theoretical framework of the study is based on narrative theory.
Findings:
Transposition of Qur’anic narratives into the contemporary era while preserving their ethical core (such as reconstructing the story of Joseph in the form of a modern family drama).
Thematic narration: focusing on the universal concepts of the Qur’an (justice, resistance) without direct reference to specific characters.
New media forms: employing animation, virtual reality (VR), and non-linear narration to convey spiritual experiences.
Intertextual approach: a creative dialogue between the Qur’an and philosophical or mythological texts (such as juxtaposing the story of Job with the myth of Sisyphus).
Ethical–artistic frameworks: observing the sanctity of sacred texts through indirect techniques (symbolism, involvement of religious institutions in production).
Discussion and Conclusion: Religious storytelling in contemporary media is a meaning-making process that, by balancing fidelity to the sacred text with artistic creativity, enables the reconstruction of religious experience for the contemporary audience. The success of these approaches depends on a profound understanding of religious texts, cultural sensitivity, and the intelligent use of media capacities.
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