Following the News of Muslims in Newspapers and on the Internet

The questioner:
Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success. Is following up on the news that occurs part of the concern for the affairs of Muslims that is commanded?

The Shaykh:
Hmm?

The questioner:
Is following up on the news that occurs in the lands of Muslims in newspapers and on internet sites part of that?

The Shaykh:
It occurs.

The questioner:
In the lands of Muslims, in newspapers and on internet sites, is this considered part of the concern for the affairs of Muslims that is commanded?

The Shaykh:
If you have an influence in this and you can bring about reconciliation among the Muslims, that is good. But if it is merely that you look at it, and there is no benefit in your hand and nothing else, then stay away from it. It confuses you, and perhaps you will condemn some and correct others, while you are not on the right path. Stay away from it, unless there is a good effect in this, such as reconciliation among the Muslims and calling to Allah. Yes.