A Muslim vis-à-vis His/Her Children

Having a child is both a great blessing and a great responsibility. Allah has said, “Your wealth and your children are only a trial, whereas Allah—with Him is a great reward (Paradise)” (64:15). Allah also says, “O you who believe, guard yourselves and your families from the Hell‑fire whose fuel is men and stones” (66:6). The meaning of this verse was reiterated by the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) when he said, “All of you are shepherds and all of you will be asked about your wards… The man is responsible for his household and will be asked about his responsibilities. The wife will be asked about the house of her husband and her responsibilities.”

Muslim scholars consider that the rights of children appear long before they are even conceived via the selection of a pious and righteous spouse. This will be the first step in providing a good household and environment for the child.

Beyond that, the most important rights of the child include: (a) being maintained and provided for in a healthy manner; (b) being taught the tenets of the religion; (3) being treated with compassion and mercy; (4) being just among multiple siblings; and (5) having a good example set for them by their parents.

Jammaal al-Din M. Zarabozo