Raising Faithful Hearts in a Noisy World

May 6, 2025

Parenting with Akhlaq, Strength, & Spirituality

Raising children with moral excellence and beautiful etiquette (akhlaq) is an integral part of nurturing a generation rooted in the principles of Islam. As parents, it is our duty to instill Islamic values and shape the character of our children in light of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp) and the Ahl al-Bayt (p), who provide a trove of timeless parenting guidance.

In this article, discover practical ways from hadith to build strong Islamic character in your children.

1. Begin in Early Childhood

Islamic parenting emphasizes starting early. Imam Ali (p) said in his will to his son Imam Hasan (p), “The heart of a child is like an empty plot of land: whatever is planted in it will grow” (Nahj al-Balagha, Letter 31).

This profound statement highlights the responsibility parents have to mold their children with virtues such as kindness, patience, and honesty. The early years are crucial for laying the foundation of good character.

Children learn through observation, play, language, and by interpreting patterns in their experiences. Think of ways to use these natural modes of learning to teach basic forms of akhlaq from an early age, helping them absorb Islamic morals naturally and joyfully.

2. Lead by Example

Imam al-Sadiq (p) said, “Preach to people without your tongue. You must show them restraint from worldly matters (sins). You should perform hard work, prayer, and good deeds. Such behavior includes preaching”
(Al-Kafi, book 1, vol. 2, ch. 37, h. 192).

One of the core principles of Islamic parenting is modeling behavior. Children tend to imitate their parents’ actions far more than their words. If you want your children to be honest, kind, faithful, and respectful, embody these qualities yourself — at home, at work, and in the community.

Good akhlaq is taught by action, not just instruction.

3. Encourage Worship and Remembrance of Allah

Spiritual development strengthens moral development. Incorporating acts of worship like prayer (salah), Quranic recitation, and supplication into a child’s daily routine builds a foundation of love for Allah and His guidance.

One narration advises, “When the child is seven years old, then ask him to wash his face, hands, and feet before offering prayers. When he is nine, teach him the correct method of doing wudu’. At this time, instruct him to offer prayers regularly“ (Wasā’il al-Shīʿa, vol. 3, p. 13).

Encourage children to engage in worship to the best of their ability. Let them join in daily prayers, recite small surahs, or fast part of a day during Ramadan. Building these habits early will nurture a deep connection with Allah — a core pillar of raising Muslim children with strong akhlaq.

4. Discipline with Wisdom and Compassion

Imam al-Sadiq (p) said, “Give your child time until he reaches six years old, then bring him close to you for seven years. Teach him with your manners”(Jāmiʿ Aḥādīth al-Shīʿa, vol. 21, p. 406).

This prophetic approach to parenting outlines developmental stages: early childhood freedom, followed by teaching, nurturing, and discipline during later childhood.

The goal is to maintain a loving relationship while gradually introducing responsibility, manners, and Islamic ethics. Discipline should never be harsh or authoritarian but filled with mercy, dialogue, and modeling good behavior.

In Islamic parenting, the relationship between parent and child is a balance of guidance, compassion, and firmness — always framed by love for the child’s ultimate spiritual success.

Why Raising Children with Akhlaq Matters Today

In a world filled with shifting moral standards and confusion, raising Muslim children with strong akhlaq rooted in Islamic teachings is more vital than ever. Islamic parenting is a form of resistance against a society that often promotes selfishness, dishonesty, and moral compromise.

Our children are a trust (amanah) from Allah. By instilling Islamic values in them early, we fulfill our duty and contribute to building a future society based on justice, compassion, and God-consciousness (taqwa).

Final Thoughts

Raising children with akhlaq is a journey that requires patience, wisdom, and ongoing self-reflection. Muslim parents can nurture morally upright, spiritually resilient children by turning to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp) and the Ahl al-Bayt (p).

Islamic parenting is not about achieving perfection — it’s about striving with sincerity, modeling beautiful character, and trusting Allah in the process. In raising children with exceptional akhlaq, we not only shape their futures but elevate our own journey toward God.