Offspring: The Ornament of Life
As stated in the Qur’an, “Wealth and children are the adornment of this worldly life…” (Surah Al-Kahf: 46). A righteous lineage is one of the greatest blessings bestowed upon God’s servants in this life, serving as a source of happiness for parents when their children are virtuous. There are several factors that contribute to the righteousness of offspring, which we will explore in this article.
Factors Leading to Righteous Offspring
1. Praying for Them
Prayer is one of the most significant forms of worship, having profound effects on a Muslim’s life in general, and specifically on the righteousness of their children. The prayers of parents for their children are among those that are accepted by God. The prominent companion Abu Huraira – may Allah be pleased with him – reported that the Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him – said: “Three supplications are answered: the supplication of the oppressed, the supplication of the traveler, and the supplication of a parent for their child.” Therefore, continuously praying for children is one of the most beneficial practices for guiding them towards righteousness. In the Qur’an, God mentions the prayers of the prophets for their offspring; for instance, Prophet Ibrahim – may peace be upon him – asked his Lord for righteous children, saying: “My Lord, grant me [a child] from among the righteous.” (Surah As-Saffat: 100)
2. Carefully Choosing Spouses
Before a child is born, it is the responsibility of both parents to choose their partner wisely. A man should select a virtuous woman who will nurture their children on the right path, while a woman should choose a supportive husband who will aid her in raising their children. The Prophet – peace be upon him – encouraged the selection of spouses based on religious commitment. As reported by Abu Huraira – may Allah be pleased with him – in Bukhari’s Sahih, the Prophet said: “Women are married for four reasons: for their wealth, lineage, beauty, and religion. So, choose the one who is religious, and may your hands be dusted.”
3. Proper Upbringing and Care
Providing good upbringing and care for children is one of their most fundamental rights. The Prophet – peace be upon him – emphasized the importance of raising children well, especially girls, stating: “Whoever is tested with these daughters and treats them kindly, they will be a shield for him from Hellfire.” This indicates the merit of nurturing children towards righteousness, and the Prophet specifically mentioned girls as future mothers and educators of generations, entrusted with family responsibilities. Consequently, God has made righteous children an ongoing charity for their parents after their demise, as conveyed by the Prophet – peace be upon him -: “When a human being dies, their deeds cease except for three: a continuous charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them.”
4. Equitable Treatment Among Children
Parents must ensure fairness among their children, whether they are sons or daughters. Justice among children is one of their rights, as highlighted by the Prophet – peace be upon him – in various Hadiths. For instance, the narration by An-Nu’man ibn Bashir – may Allah be pleased with him – includes the Prophet saying: “Fear Allah and be just among your children, as you would like them to honor you.” It is inappropriate to favor either boys over girls or vice versa in any matter. It is important for an individual to accept what God – the Almighty – has decreed regarding their children, whether they be sons or daughters.