Photo: galloween (Flickr)Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) never showed impatience as a father and grandfather. Through many narrations on his behavior with children we know he played with them and was often most happy and joyful with those in the community who were children.
How the Prophet Muhammad, upon him be peace greeted his children:
“He (the Prophet) would go there, and we would go with him, and he would enter the house, pick up his son and kiss him.”
In light of recent Father’s Day celebrations, I reflect upon the adab or etiquette we learn from the Prophetic example.
The Prophetic example is replete with moments of tender affection exhibited to his children. Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) would engage children, speak with them, play with them and he recognized their integral place as members of the community.
The presence of children in his Masjid was welcomed and celebrated. Perhaps we too need to think about how in contemporary times we are welcoming as parents, as leaders and builders of houses of worship to children of the community?
Are activities and the way we design our masajid and programs mindful of the needs of children and creatively structured to make them feel not just a part of the family and community but central pillars in our lives? As parents, do we get down to the physical level of our children, embrace them and play with them, not showing frustration but fully engaged love?
The Prophet mentioned in different sayings that good etiquette and education are among the most important things we pass on to our children. Parenting is not just a mere transmission of content, it is the molding of our children’s character.
Do we ensure that children do well at school and treat their peers well? Do we hold honesty and kindness in as high regard as achieving in math and science?
Are both fathers and mothers involved in building the moral component of their children’s character?
Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) never showed impatience as a father and grandfather. Through many narrations on his behavior with children we know he played with them and was often most happy and joyful with those in the community who were children.
Do we remember that children are a trust, amanah from God and not a burden? How do we find ways to cultivate joy in our families?
How do we help our children to know that our homes can be filled with happiness and how do we develop this capacity as a family to share joyful times? What do you do daily in the craziness of modern life to make joy as a family?
May Allah bless all loving and caring fathers who follow the Sunnah or Prophetic example!
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