Published: 14 September 2020
Last updated: 4 March 2024
IN LEE WEISSMAN'S newly religious days, he carried his truth like a holy sledgehammer, he says, wielding it against unreceptive family and friends.
"I think a lot of people go through a phase of feeling like they've suddenly discovered the truth and they need to beat everybody over the head with it," says the American rabbi and interfaith educator.
"Certainly, on Twitter you will find many of those people, because that's the fastest way to beat people over the head."
In the past decade, he's become a prolific tweeter — known online as the "Jihadi Jew" — and amassed 38,000 followers.
Rabbi Weissman is part of a growing number of "religious influencers", persons of faith sharing their spirituality, and sometimes modest style, online.
Another is Yasmin Jay. With an Instagram following of nearly 150,000, it could be said that Yasmin Jay wields a fair amount of influence.
Since starting her account at age 15, the hijabi-sporting Sydneysider has become known for modest fashion hacks and makeup tutorials.
Ms Jay says the aim of her Instagram is to empower young, female Muslims to be proud of their spirituality and — if they choose to wear it — their hijab.
FULL STORY From the 'Jihadi Jew' to a hijabi Instagrammer, here's what happens when spirituality meets social media (ABC)
Photo: Yasmin Jay (supplied)
