Children are an adornment of our life in this world (Al-Qur’an 18:46). Raising them as successful stewards of Allah with a moral upbringing and positive social and life skills, in this era of moral decline, is a big test for any parent.
As such, parenting is a life-long commitment that not only encompasses the physical, mental and emotional upbringing but also the spiritual qualities for both this life and the eternal life to come.
Children are a trust
To people of faith, children are a ‘trust’ (Amanah, in Arabic). Successful parenting requires full commitment, creative thinking, enormous patience and often huge sacrifices. Our life flows forward only and no sensible parent can afford to take their duties lightly. Whilst positive parenting is the wisest investment for future, poor parenting can bring shocking consequences for a family and the society.
Raising children is an inter-generational task that helps create and sustain a stable, peaceful and successful society. Through positive parenting, an extended family plays the central role of both a nursery and a school, to produce a conscientious generation who are outward looking and forward thinking.
Islamic approach to parenting
The Qur’an tells believers to take their life seriously, not casually.
{O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from Fire whose fuel is people and stones … } (At-Tahrim 66:6)
Muslim parents are required to educate and train their children to not associate (anything) with Allah; to be grateful to Allah and their parents; to not obey parents blindly, but treat them with appropriate kindness; to be aware that Allah will bring forth things as small as a mustard seed; to establish prayer, enjoin good, forbid evil and be patient; to not be arrogant; to not walk haughtily on earth; to be moderate in their stride; and to lower their voice – (Al-Qur’an 31:13-19).
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said “When a child of Adam dies, all deeds are cut off, except three – continuous charity; knowledge that benefits others and a righteous child’s supplication” (Sahih Muslim).