Raising children with Islamic values is not merely a passing educational task; rather, it is a great trust and a noble mission entrusted to parents. Children are the foundation of the future, and if guided according to Islamic principles, they will become righteous pillars in building society. In this article, we present a comprehensive guide with practical steps to instill Islamic values in children, based on the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
Building the Child’s Relationship with Allah
Tawheed (monotheism) is the cornerstone of the Islamic faith. Allah says: "And [mention, O Muhammad], when Luqman said to his son while he was instructing him, “O my son, do not associate [anything] with Allah. Indeed, association [with him] is great injustice”" (Luqman: 13). Teaching children to recognize the greatness of Allah from an early age is a profound responsibility on parents and society, as it is the key to the nation's righteousness and uprightness. This involves teaching correct beliefs, introducing Allah's names and attributes, and instilling reliance and gratitude toward Him. The Prophet ﷺ set the best example in this, as seen in his advice to Ibn Abbas, teaching him to turn to Allah in every situation. Abdullah Ibn Abbas narrated: "One day I was behind the Prophet ﷺ [riding on the same mount] when he said: 'O young man, I shall teach you some words [of advice]: Be mindful of Allah and Allah will protect you. Be mindful of Allah and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, then ask Allah [alone]; and if you seek help, then seek help from Allah [alone]. And know that if the nation were to gather together to benefit you with anything, they would not benefit you except with what Allah had already prescribed for you. And if they were to gather together to harm you with anything, they would not harm you except with what Allah had already prescribed against you. The pens have been lifted and the pages have dried.'” (Tirmidhi)
Teaching Children to Pray
To instill a love for prayer and its significance in their lives, create an environment that encourages children to perform it with joy and enthusiasm. This can be done by setting up a special prayer space at home, well-organized and adorned with prayer mats and tools that connect the child to it emotionally. Allow the child to participate in setting up this space, enhancing their sense of ownership and attachment.
Introducing children to prayer should start early, inviting them to join parents during prayer time to familiarize them with the practice. As they grow, they can learn simple rulings such as purification and performing ablution, alongside memorizing Surah Al-Fatihah and short chapters of the Quran. The Prophet ﷺ instructed: "Command your children to perform Salat (prayer) when they are seven years old, and beat them for (not offering) it when they are ten." (Abu Dawood).
Instilling Moral Values
Instilling moral values in children is fundamental to building a balanced and strong character. Islam emphasizes virtues, as the Prophet ﷺ said: "God has sent me to perfect good qualities of character." (Bayhaqi). Parents can use stories, especially from the Sunnah and the lives of the companions, to highlight the importance of traits like honesty, trustworthiness, and modesty.
Teaching the Quran and Its Recitation
Teaching the Quran and its recitation nourishes the soul and builds the foundation of the Muslim child’s character. The Prophet ﷺ said: "The best among you is he who learns and teaches the Quran." (Bukhari). Begin by teaching short chapters attractively and engagingly to foster a connection with the divine words. Utilize modern tools such as interactive Quran learning apps and enroll them in Quran memorization circles at mosques or Islamic centers to create a supportive and Islamic learning environment.
Encouraging the Love of Knowledge
Encouraging a love of learning is one of the greatest Islamic values. Allah says: "Read in the name of your Lord who created." (Al-‘Alaq: 1). Parents can establish a stimulating learning environment at home, such as a small library with age-appropriate books, demonstrating a personal interest in reading and lifelong learning. Activities like visiting libraries, attending cultural events, and participating in competitions make learning enjoyable and interactive, fostering creativity and curiosity.
By raising children grounded in Islamic values, parents fulfill their duty to nurture a generation that upholds these principles and contributes positively to their community and the Ummah.
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Sources:
- khutba by Sheikh Fahd bin Hassan Al-Ghurab
- Al-Nabulsi Encyclopedia
- Flowmaster Kids website
