Raising children is one of the biggest responsibilities. There is a quote on parenting “It takes a whole village to raise a child”.  This means that the upbringing of a child is a huge responsibility. Islam has given guidelines for all aspects of life. Parenting is one of them. Islam teaches us the correct way of raising a child. The way of raising a child according to Islamic principles is known as Islamic parenting.

In other words, it can be said that Islamic parenting has all the answers on how to raise a child. It gives us all the tips through which we can make our children individuals connected with Islam

ISLAM AND PARENTHOOD

Parenting in Islam is a holistic approach that shapes the well-being of a child. The Holy Quran is a complete guide for us. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) said:

‘There is no gift a father gives his child more virtuous than good manners. ‘ (Tirmidhi Hadith No. 4977)

 This Hadith explains the significance of teaching good manners to kids. Islamic parenting isn’t just about providing material comfort to the children. It is also about shaping the personalities of the children in the light of Islamic teachings.

PARENTING IN THE QURAN: A TIMELESS GUIDE

The Quran has answers to all our questions. It provides clear guidance on parenting. One such verse explains the essence of parental responsibility:

 “And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, ‘My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.” (Quran 17:24)

This verse beautifully illustrates the concept of treating parents with respect and kindness. In Islamic parenting, humility is not a sign of weakness. However, it is a manifestation of strength rooted in compassion and gratitude.

ISLAMIC PARENTING PRINCIPLES

Lead by Example

Children are keen observers, learning more from actions than words. As parents, our behavior serves as a model for our children. The Quran emphasizes the importance of teaching through actions. ALLAH (SWT) has mentioned in the Holy Quran:

“O you who have believed, why do you say what you do not do? Great is hatred in the sight of Allah that you say what you do not do.” (Quran 61:2-3)

Creating an Islamic environment can have positive effects on children’s upbringing. Parents can teach their children about Islamic principles by adopting themselves first. This way the children will adopt Islamic habits in a much easier and faster way.

Communication with Compassion

Effective communication is at the core of Islamic parenting. The Quran encourages parents to communicate with their children gently. Lack of communication between children and parents can create a gap. The children won’t understand the thinking of parents and neither will the parents.

Parents must have moderate behavior with their children. Islamic parenting involves a friendly relationship between parents and children. This does not mean that the children do not respect their parents. It means that the parents must give them confidence and trust. The confidence of having a conversation without the fear of being judged. The parents should be kind and humble with their children. So the children can share their daily activities and secrets with their parents. This will help the parents in guiding them to the right path.

Instilling Taqwa (Consciousness of Allah)

Islamic parenting aims to develop a deep sense of God-consciousness in children. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the significance of developing taqwa:

“O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones.” (Quran 66:6)

Instilling taqwa in children will help them differentiate between wrong and right. They will fear ALLAH (SWT) and will not be involved in any wrong activities. Taqwa will make children good human beings and good Muslims.

ISLAMIC PARENTING TIPS

Prayer as a Family Ritual

Incorporate prayers into your daily routine as a family. Let your children witness the beauty of submission to Allah through Salah. Make it a joyful and communal experience that fosters a love for prayer. The Hadith of the Holy Prophet on the importance of teaching Salah to kids goes as:

Teach your child to pray, when he becomes seven, and punish him for not obeying it from the age of ten”(at-Tirmizi No. 407).

Teaching through Stories

The Quran is rich with stories that offer valuable lessons. Share these stories with your children to teach moral and ethical values. This not only imparts wisdom but also strengthens the bond between parent and child.

Encouraging Questions

Islam encourages seeking knowledge. Create an environment where your children feel comfortable asking questions. They can freely ask about faith, life, and everything in between. Nurture their curiosity. Moreover, guide them with patience and understanding.

Balancing Discipline with Mercy

Discipline is a crucial aspect of parenting; however, it must be coupled with mercy. The Holy Prophet set an example of balancing discipline with mercy. He (PBUH) always focused on teaching with mercy and kindness.

CONCLUSION:

To sum up, Islamic parenting guides us in shaping the personalities of our offspring. It briefly explains to us the factors which aid in forming a united family. Parenting in Islam isn’t a rigid set of rules but a fluid and loving journey.

The Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about parenting is an open book for parents. Parenting is not only about raising individuals. It is about making our children better human beings. Our main goal is to make them the people who are liked by ALLAH (SWT).

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