The human beings have been created by the almighty Allah with unique and distinguished qualities. Due to these qualities he has been awarded the title of “Crown of Creation”. But due to the avarice and greediness, human beings have distorted and destroyed their character. We have all heard about moral degradation but we don’t realize that it is a rising menace in our society and rather we have got used to it now. Moral degradation refers to the decline or deterioration of ethical standards and values within a society, not only in standards, but in character as well. Greed has become the forerunner in the world today. A critical loss of morals or ethical values takes place which strikes segregation from social institutions or absence of capable guardianship. We have degraded ourselves on the name of modernization and westerenisation. We have got deviated from our religions, which act as a guiding source for its followers. Moral values are those set of standards by which we recognize between right and wrong. Morality and character has great importance in our religion Islam, as our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has conveyed to us that a man of good character can only progress in his life.

Almighty Allah say in the Holy Quran,( ”Chapter 17 , Verse 70” )

And we have certainly honoured the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what we have created, with [definite] preference

إن خياركم هو أحسنكم أخالقا و خلق

Prophet Mohammad reportedly said, " The best among you are those who have the best manners and Character. Sahih al-Bukhari(8:73:56)

The Major Causes of Moral Degradation in Society can be Summed up as Under

Based on observations, a significant portion of the population appears to be strongly influenced by a materialistic outlook, prioritizing change at any cost. This inclination towards materialism is identified as a contributing factor to the degradation of moral values within society. Individuals driven by an intense desire for change, often fueled by material pursuits, may find themselves compromising ethical principles in the pursuit of their goals. This phenomenon underscores the critical link between a materialistic mindset and the erosion of moral standards, highlighting the need for a comprehensive understanding and remedial measures to address this challenge."
The prevalent use of modern accessories, such as mobile phones and the internet, has given rise to a concerning trend of internet addiction among today's youth. It is increasingly common to observe young children engaging with mobile devices and the internet from the early hours of the day until late at night. This extensive screen time often results in reduced interaction with family members and elders. The diminished social interactions and bonding among individuals, particularly the younger generation, have led to a weakened sense of socialization. This shift not only impacts personal relationships but also contributes to the broader societal challenge of fostering meaningful connections and sustaining a robust social fabric.
Distancing ourselves from our religious literature and values has become a notable trend. Islam, in particular, provides clear codes of conduct that are meant to be embraced by all rational beings. Unfortunately, there is a noticeable lack of knowledge about our own religion, with a growing preference for missionary schools over traditional Madrassas. A disheartening incident I encountered last year during a journey from Srinagar to Pulwama highlights this shift – a woman seated in front of me advised someone over the phone not to allow their children to attend the religious school (darsgah). This situation is unfortunate for our society as a whole.

Effects of Moral Degradation

Reduced reverence from children towards parents and teachers is one of the consequences of moral degradation. It is essential to treat our parents with kindness and show respect to our educators.

Almighty Allah says in the Quran, Surah Bani Israel (chapter 17:23 verse)

“YOur Lord has decreed do not worship any but Him, be good to your parents and should both or anyone of them attain old age with you, do not say to them even “fie” neither chide them but speak to them with respect” .

The repercussions of drug addiction and the use of narcotic substances are significant. The younger generation is increasingly falling into the trap of substance abuse, impacting their ability to communicate effectively with elders. In Islam, the consumption of alcohol and other intoxicants is strictly prohibited, as they lead to altered states of consciousness. A recent, deeply shameful incident in Sopore involved a young drug addict who tragically took the life of his own mother. As one Imam aptly stated, 'The teachings of Prophet Muhammad SAW emphasize that every intoxicant is considered alcohol, and every form of alcohol is forbidden (haram).

Almighty Allah says in the Quran , ( Chapter 2 : 219 Verse )

“They ask you about wine and games of chance say,” in both these there is great evil, even though there is some benefit for people, but their evil is greater than their benefit”.

Now, addressing this menace through our religious values becomes crucial. Religion, serving as a potent instrument of social control, stands as the primary tool to combat moral degradation. It is the guiding force that regulates both society and individuals, providing standards that social beings must adhere to. By following these standards, the influence of religion acts as a deterrent against moral degradation.
Schools can contribute significantly to preventing moral degradation by imparting moral lessons to students, emphasizing their religious and cultural values. This ensures that students maintain a strong connection with their cultural and religious roots, preventing alienation and fostering a sense of cultural and moral integrity.
The most effective method to halt moral degradation is by staying closely connected to the Quran and the Ahadith. Almighty Allah has granted us free will, allowing us the freedom to choose our actions. However, the constant presence of temptation in various forms challenges individuals. Opting for righteous choices brings divine blessings as a reward, while making wrong decisions results in divine wrath. Therefore, individuals must make virtuous choices to receive rewards.

Almighty Allah says in Quran ( chapter 2 : 82 verse )

“And those who believe and do good will be residence of paradise.they will be there forever”.

In conclusion, we beseech Almighty Allah to lead us along the righteous path and shield us from engaging in wrongful actions.
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