Children's Rights in Islam

 

Children's Rights in Islam: Guidance from the Qur'an and Prophet's Sunnah:

Islam is a comprehensive way of life that covers all aspects of human existence, including the rights and responsibilities towards children. The Islamic framework ensures that children are treated with kindness, respect, and care, giving them the foundation to grow into responsible and righteous adults. This article delves into children's rights in Islam, drawing guidance from the Qur'an and the Sunnah (traditions) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Introduction

In Islam, the family is the cornerstone of society, and children are considered a trust from Allah (God). The responsibility of nurturing, educating, and protecting children is paramount. This responsibility is not only on the parents but also on the community. The Qur'an and the Sunnah provide extensive guidance on how children should be treated, ensuring their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Children's Rights Before Birth

The Right to a Righteous Parent




One of the foremost rights of a child is the right to a righteous parent. Islam emphasizes the importance of choosing a pious and virtuous spouse. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "A woman is married for four things: her wealth, her lineage, her beauty, and her religion. So marry the one who is religious and you will prosper" (Sahih al-Bukhari). This highlights that the religious and moral character of a parent is crucial in ensuring the proper upbringing of children.

The Right to Life

Islam strictly prohibits infanticide and any form of harm to a child before birth. The Qur'an condemns the pre-Islamic Arab practice of burying newborn daughters alive, stating, "And when the girl [who was] buried alive is asked for what sin she was killed" (Qur'an 81:8-9). This verse underscores the sanctity of life and the severe consequences of taking an innocent life.

Rights at Birth



The Right to a Good Name

One of the first rights a child receives after birth is the right to a good name. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised parents to choose meaningful and pleasant names for their children. He said, "You will be called on the Day of Resurrection by your names and the names of your fathers, so keep your names good" (Abu Dawood). A good name positively impacts a child's identity and self-esteem.

The Right to Aqiqah

Aqiqah is the Islamic tradition of sacrificing an animal on behalf of the newborn, typically performed on the seventh day after birth. This practice symbolizes gratitude to Allah and serves as a means of purifying the child. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Every child is in pledge for its Aqiqah, which should be sacrificed for it on the seventh day, and its head should be shaved, and it should be given a name" (Sunan Abu Dawood).

The Right to Breastfeeding



Islam encourages breastfeeding due to its numerous health and emotional benefits for both the mother and child. The Qur'an states, "Mothers may breastfeed their children two complete years for whoever wishes to complete the nursing [period]" (Qur'an 2:233). This verse highlights the importance of breastfeeding and the mother's right to support during this period.

Rights During Childhood

The Right to Education



Education is a fundamental right of every child in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge, saying, "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim" (Sunan Ibn Majah). This obligation includes both religious and secular knowledge, ensuring that children grow up to be well-rounded individuals.

The Right to Love and Affection

Children have the right to be treated with love, compassion, and kindness. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) demonstrated immense love and affection towards children. Anas ibn Malik, a companion of the Prophet, said, "I have never seen anyone who was more compassionate towards children than Allah's Messenger" (Sahih Muslim). Such behaviour sets a standard for how parents and adults should treat children.

The Right to Play and Leisure



Play is an essential part of a child's development, and Islam recognizes the importance of allowing children to enjoy their childhood. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) played with children and allowed them to engage in playful activities. This fosters creativity, physical health, and social skills.

The Right to Protection

Children have the right to be protected from harm, abuse, and neglect. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young ones" (Sunan Abu Dawood). This hadith emphasizes the importance of safeguarding children and ensuring their well-being.

Rights During Adolescence

The Right to Moral and Ethical Guidance

As children grow into adolescence, they need proper moral and ethical guidance. The Qur'an and Sunnah provide a comprehensive framework for teaching values such as honesty, integrity, respect, and responsibility. Parents and guardians are responsible for instilling these values in their children.

The Right to Privacy



Islam recognizes the right to privacy, which extends to adolescents. The Qur'an instructs believers to seek permission before entering private spaces, stating, "O you who have believed, do not enter houses other than your own houses until you ascertain welcome and greet their inhabitants" (Qur'an 24:27). This principle of privacy helps maintain respect and dignity within the family.

The Right to Participate in Family Decisions



Adolescents should be encouraged to participate in family decisions and express their opinions. This inclusion fosters a sense of responsibility and prepares them for adult life. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often consulted with young companions and valued their perspectives, setting an example for inclusive decision-making.

Special Rights of Orphans

Islam places a strong emphasis on the care and protection of orphans. The Qur'an repeatedly urges Muslims to treat orphans with kindness and fairness. Allah says, "And they give food despite love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive" (Qur'an 76:8). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also stated, "I and the one who takes care of an orphan will be together like this in Paradise," and he held his two fingers together to illustrate (Sahih al-Bukhari).

Rights of Children with Disabilities



Islamic teachings advocate for the rights and inclusion of children with disabilities. They are entitled to the same love, care, and opportunities as other children. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) showed compassion towards individuals with disabilities and ensured their needs were met. This inclusive approach promotes dignity and equality.

Conclusion

In Islam, children's rights are deeply rooted in the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). These rights encompass all aspects of a child's life, from the moment of conception through birth, childhood, and adolescence. By adhering to these principles, Muslims are guided to create a nurturing and just environment for the next generation.

The emphasis on choosing righteous parents, ensuring the well-being of children at birth, providing education, showing love and affection, protecting them from harm, and including children in family decisions all contribute to the holistic development of a child. Additionally, special considerations for orphans and children with disabilities highlight the inclusive and compassionate nature of Islamic teachings.

By upholding these rights, Muslims fulfil their responsibilities towards children, ensuring they grow into morally upright, knowledgeable, and compassionate individuals. This not only benefits the children but also strengthens the fabric of the Muslim community and society at large.

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