“In Islam, a child’s upbringing begins with teaching them faith and the belief in the Oneness of Allah, using Luqman’s advice as a model.”
Islam provides a comprehensive and balanced framework for child upbringing that integrates moral, spiritual, emotional, and intellectual development under the guidance of the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Children are considered a trust (Amanah) from Allah, and their proper upbringing is both a responsibility and a means of gaining reward in the Hereafter. Allah says in the Qur’an: “O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones” (Qur’an 66:6). This verse highlights the duty of parents to guide their children towards righteousness and shield them from spiritual and moral harm. The upbringing of a child in Islam begins with instilling faith (Iman) and the correct belief in the Oneness of Allah (Tawheed). Luqman’s advice to his son serves as a model: “O my son, do not associate anything with Allah. Indeed, shirk is a great injustice” (Qur’an 31:13). This foundational belief shapes a child’s worldview and moral compass. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasized teaching children about prayer from a young age, saying: “Instruct your children to pray when they are seven years old…” (Abu Dawood). This hadith demonstrates the gradual and patient approach Islam encourages, allowing children to develop love and discipline in their acts of worship. In addition to this, Islam places great emphasis on love, mercy, and kindness in parenting. The Prophet (SAW) was known for his affectionate dealings with children, often kissing and hugging them. When a man once expressed surprise at the Prophet’s affection towards children, the Prophet replied: “He who does not show mercy will not be shown mercy” (Sahih al-Bukhari). This nurturing environment fosters emotional security and empathy in children. Alongside love, Islamic upbringing also includes discipline and setting boundaries with wisdom. The Prophet (SAW) stated: “No father has given a better gift to his child than good manners” (Tirmidhi).
“The Islamic framework for child upbringing a holistic and divine system fosters the nurturing of a child’s faith, character, intellect, and emotional well-being. This system emphasizes a balance between love and discipline, as well as spiritual growth and worldly responsibility. It prepares children to succeed in this life and to attain the pleasure of Allah in the afterlife.”
Teaching Adab (etiquette) and Akhlaq (character) is central to Islamic parenting. This includes truthfulness, respect for elders, kindness to others, and responsibility. Islam also encourages parents to lead by example, as children learn more from actions than words. The Prophet (SAW) was the living embodiment of the Qur’an, and his character was described as “a mercy to the worlds” (Qur’an 21:107). Thus, parents are urged to model the prophetic qualities of honesty, patience, humility, and justice. Moreover, making Du’a for children is a vital part of their upbringing. The Qur’an praises those who supplicate: “Our Lord, grant us from among our spouses and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us leaders for the righteous” (Qur’an 25:74). This shows that the spiritual development of children is deeply linked to the intentions and prayers of the parents. In conclusion, the Islamic framework for child upbringing is a holistic and divine system that nurtures the child’s faith, character, intellect, and emotional well-being. It emphasizes balance between love and discipline, spiritual growth and worldly responsibility, and prepares children not only to succeed in this life but to attain the pleasure of Allah in the Hereafter.
