The article discusses the origins and evolution of TikTok, tracing its inception back to 2016 when Douyin was launched in Beijing, which subsequently transformed into TikTok for Western audiences. The author suggests that if a future historian were to pinpoint the moment the 21st century shifted gears, they would likely focus on the emergence of TikTok rather than geopolitical events. This platform has not only come to dominate digital culture but has also attracted a staggering following analogous to that of world religions.

With an estimated user base of 1.59 billion, TikTok has established an unprecedented cultural hegemony that rivals traditional religions like Christianity and Islam, which have approximately 2.5 billion followers each. The article implies that TikTok functions almost as a 'religion' in its own right, with rituals and practices centered around content creation and consumption. The gravity of TikTok's impact on modern society is underscored by this comparison, which portrays the platform as an influential force that shapes cultural values and trends globally.

In conclusion, TikTok's significance transcends mere entertainment; it has become a cornerstone of contemporary digital identity and communication. As the article emphasizes, our attention and engagement with TikTok are akin to a collective devotion, raising questions about the platform's role in our lives and how it informs our social interactions and cultural narratives in the digital age.