” Children Islamically ” Islam puts a lot of emphasis on raising children. A pious child is not only a blessing to parents in this life but also a means of ongoing reward in the Hereafter. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized how important it is to raise children who pray for their parents upon their death. This itself indicates how much parenting matters in Islam.
In “How to Bring Up Your Children Islamically,” Shaykh Wahid Abdussalam Bali presents a thorough, fact-based manual based on the Qur’an and Sunnah. This book illuminates different aspects of childcare, giving insight into how Islamic teachings can be implanted at a young age. It outlines how early upbringing has a long-term impact on the child’s character and religion.
Parenting Begins with Intentions
Every deed in Islam starts with intention, and parenting is not exempt. When parents embark on their journey with the good intent of raising children who are submissive to Allah, all their efforts become acts of worship. The author goes out to emphasize this at the very beginning of the book, warning that the objective is not one of good citizenship but that of devoted Muslims.
A definite aim serves to direct parenting choices, from the way we discipline to the way we teach. Shaykh Wahid urges parents to remind themselves frequently that their children are an amanah (trust) from Allah, and they will be held responsible for how they cultivate that trust. This change in attitude instills a goal-oriented method of child-rearing.
The Role of the Home Environment
The house is a child’s initial school, and parents are the initial teachers. This book describes how a house that is full of love, dhikr, prayer, and knowledge provides a fertile ground where Islamic values develop naturally. Children learn and absorb everything—from how they talk to how they respond under pressure.
Shaykh Wahid highlights the fact that a house must be more than a physical shelter, but a spiritual haven. When children live in a place where the Qur’an is read, Islamic etiquette is observed, and prayers are offered daily, these values get deeply rooted in their minds and hearts with ease.
Discipline in Light of Islam
Discipline is not about severity of punishment, but guidance and correction. Islam teaches us to be gentle in all affairs, and raising children is one of them. The author refers to true sources to describe how Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) treated children—with mercy, patience, and wisdom.
In this book, parents find that fairness, setting boundaries, and consistency are more effective than yelling or physical punishment. The Prophet’s method was to correct the behavior with kindness, explanations, and du’as. Shaykh Wahid provides practical examples of how parents could have discipline while still having love and respect.
Teaching the Foundations of Faith
The children should learn to understand their Creator and for what purpose they have been created. The book calls on parents to start inculcating Tawheed (oneness of Allah) in early childhood. Ideas such as prayer, thankfulness, and love of the Prophet can be introduced with the help of little stories, actions, and verbal conversation.
Shaykh Wahid demonstrates how to present these subjects in child-friendly terms. For instance, he suggests instructing children to pray with the use of the phrase “Bismillah” prior to eating, or participating in prayer sessions. Through repetition and imitation, these concepts seize their hold and provide a foundation for a powerful Islamic identity.
Choosing the Right Friends
Peer pressure gets stronger with age. The book advises parents to observe the type of friends their children hang out with, as they may help or harm a child’s Islamic values. A good friend reminds you of Allah, whereas a bad one drags you away from the truth.
The parents are encouraged to establish positive relationships with their children so that they are able to direct their decisions. Shaykh Wahid stresses that the solution is not isolation, but rather engagement. Time taken to acquaint oneself with your child’s entourage and redirecting them when necessary is part of careful parenting.
Promoting Modesty and Good Manners
Islamic upraising is more than memorizing du’as or going to Islamic school—it’s about living adab (manners) as well. The book offers ample guidance on how to teach children to be modest, humble, and respectful. These are habits that need to be instilled early and with consistency.
Shaykh Wahid describes that modesty in behavior, dress, and speech are indicators of a well-brought-up Muslim child. He encourages parents to set an example and commend good behavior rather than merely correcting the bad ones. Manners are taught every day and become part of a child’s personality.
Dealing with Modern Challenges
It is more challenging than ever to raise children in today’s world. The internet, media, and peer pressure create issues that most parents have no idea how to deal with. This book doesn’t avoid these issues but gives equal, faith-based answers to keeping children grounded.
Shaykh Wahid suggests parents communicate freely, be aware of what their children watch, and monitor their emotional health. It’s not fear or control but building a relationship of trust in which children feel comfortable to open up and parents lead without judgment.
Making Du’a for Your Children
Supplication (du’a) is one of the strongest weapons of Islamic parenting. The book emphasizes how frequently du’a must be made on behalf of your children for their guidance, protection, and achievement in this world and the next. Numerous instances from the life of the prophets are used to make
Shaykh Wahid urges parents to pray du’a not just during times of adversity but also during times of happiness. The genuine du’a of a parent is never in vain and can be used to soften hearts, repel barriers, and open avenues of blessings that no amount of worldly endeavor could attain. It’s the intangible force behind every endeavor.
Final Thoughts and Encouragement
This book is not just a guide; it’s a motivational companion for every Muslim parent who wants to raise righteous children. Shaykh Wahid Abdussalam Bali’s words are filled with wisdom, drawn directly from the Qur’an, Sunnah, and experiences of the early Muslims.
No parent is flawless, and the journey is long, but with genuine effort, trust in Allah, and a dedication to the Islamic path, parents can accomplish this noble responsibility. “How to Bring Up Your Children Islamically” is an essential guide for anyone committed to raising the next generation of believers.
Read more: Advices of Abu Ad-Dardaa By Shaykh Saalih Ibn Abdul Aziz Aali Shaykh