In this present era of disobedience, it can be hard to raise children in the proper Muslim way. Children are easily influenced by what they see around them. The influence of social media coupled with friends and sometimes family members can pose negative threats to the proper upbringing of a child.
Nonetheless, child upbringing can be easy by showing children better options from the Qur’an and the sunnah of our beloved Rasul. These options will not only make it easier for the parents to raise their wards the proper way but also assist the children in living a good life in this world and the hereafter.
Below are a few points that can be beneficial in child upbringing:
Giving children good names
Good names they say speak well about a person’s personality. The prophet said: “Give your children good names” and he also said: “the names most beloved to Allah are Abdullah and Abdurrahman”. If we dig deep into the meaning of these names, they portray beautiful attributes of Allah. A child would also live up to his or her name.
Inculcate the concept of Tawheed in children
This simply means making children understand that Allah alone is worthy of worship and Lordship. Children also understand the meanings of the beautiful names of Allah. When a child becomes aware of the existence of Allah as the Supreme Being, it imbues a sense of fear of Allah in them. As such, they are always reminded of their duty as Muslims wherever they may be.
Proper education
One of the best gifts to give a child is proper education. A well-educated child can hardly be lured into social vices. The prophet said: “the best gift from a parent to his child is correct training” (Tirmidhi). A proper education helps a child to make a good living in an halaal way which may ultimately help him gain a good life in the hereafter. Depriving a child of proper education can prevent him from fostering the required relationship with his Creator.
Helping the children to choose a good role model
Children are easily influenced by the people they cherish and adore. They hope to be like them. Parents should strive to be good role models and as well acquaint them with teachings from the lives of our pious predecessors.
Rights of others
A benefit can be derived from the verse of the Qur’an where Allah said:
“Worship Allah and join none in worship with Him, do good to your parents, kin, orphans, needy, the neighbor who is a stranger, the companion by the sides, the wayfarers and the slaves whom your right hand possess. Verily, Allah does not like those who are proud and boastful” (4:36).
This verse is a message for the parents and the children as, the latter are bound to imitate whatever their parents do. As such, parents should endeavour to desist from acts such as lying, backbiting, stealing, slandering, curse to mention a few.
On a final note, parents should strive to provide all they can within their capabilities to give their children the best. They should be treated with fairness, love and mercy while hoping in Allah to make them pious and productive Muslims. Child upbringing could be tiring and frustrating but with the Help of Allah, patience and perseverance, it can be rewarding.
Author: Haulat Ozigis
