Responsibilities of Muslim Parents Towards Children

[islamicforum]

Parenting is not just a biological or social duty but a spiritual responsibility that impacts both this life and the hereafter. Here are the primary duties entrusted to Muslim parents:

1. Providing a Good Name and Upbringing

From birth, parents are responsible for giving their child a good name with a positive meaning. This reflects their identity and character. A proper Islamic upbringing (Tarbiyah) includes teaching good manners, respect, and basic Islamic beliefs.

2. Instilling Faith (Iman) and Worship (Ibadah)

Parents are responsible for educating their children about Tawheed (the Oneness of Allah), the Prophets, the Qur’an, and the foundational pillars of Islam. Encouraging prayer, fasting, and love for Allah from a young age helps build a strong connection with faith.

3. Being Role Models

Children are more influenced by their parents' actions than by their words. A righteous parent who practices Islam sincerely becomes a living example for the child. This encompasses qualities such as honesty, kindness, patience, and humility.

4. Ensuring Halal and Ethical Living

Parents must provide halal food, clothing, and shelter. Equally important is earning through halal means and avoiding anything unlawful, as it affects the spiritual development of the child.

5. Offering Love, Compassion, and Emotional Support

Islam encourages mercy and affection in parenting. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was renowned for his gentle and compassionate treatment of children. Expressing love builds trust and emotional well-being in the child.

6. Offering Education – Encompassing Both Religious and Secular Knowledge

Parents must ensure their children receive sound education. Religious education helps build moral character, while worldly education enables them to be productive members of society.

7. Disciplining with Wisdom and Mercy

Discipline should be guided by fairness, consistency, and compassion. Islam encourages gentle correction and discourages harshness. Teaching right from wrong with wisdom helps shape responsible behavior.

8. Protecting from Harmful Influences

Parents must safeguard their children from physical, spiritual, and moral harm, including bad company, immoral content, and environments that contradict Islamic values.

9. Making Du'a for Their Children

Parents are encouraged to pray for their children regularly. A sincere du’a can bring blessings, protection, and guidance throughout the child’s life.

10. Preparing Them for the Hereafter

The ultimate aim of Islamic parenting is to raise children for success in this life and salvation in the Hereafter. Guiding them to become obedient servants of Allah is the highest form of love a parent can show.