In a world that often overlooks the voices of the young, Islam elevates the status of children, bestowing upon them inherent rights and dignity. At the heart of this beautiful guidance lies the perfect example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, whose life was a living testament to compassion, especially towards the smallest members of society. His Prophet Muhammad treatment of children was not merely an aspect of his character; it was a divine instruction, a practical manifestation of the Quranic verse describing him as “a mercy to the worlds” (Quran 21:107). For parents, educators, and every Muslim, his conduct offers a profound, heart-warming blueprint for nurturing young souls with love, respect, and understanding. This article explores the inspiring examples of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ kindness to children and the invaluable lessons from Seerah that can transform our approach to parenting and child-rearing.
Prophet’s ﷺ Love for Children: An Overflowing Affection
The love of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ for children was palpable, spontaneous, and unconditional. He did not see them as insignificant, but as beloved trusts from Allah, worthy of affection and joy. His life is filled with countless stories of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and children that melt the heart and inspire the soul.
One of the most touching narratives involves his grandsons, Hasan and Husain (may Allah be pleased with them). The Prophet ﷺ would often carry them on his shoulders, kiss them, and even prolong his prostration in prayer when they climbed onto his back, preferring their comfort over his own. He was once seen Prophet Muhammad ﷺ playing with children, allowing his grandsons to ride on his back while he was in prostration. Such was his Prophet ﷺ love for children that he would openly express his affection. A Bedouin once saw him kissing his grandson and remarked, “You kiss your children? I have ten children and have never kissed any of them.” The Prophet ﷺ responded with compassion and clarity, “What can I do for you if Allah has removed mercy from your heart?” (Sahih al-Bukhari). This powerful statement underscores that mercy and affection are not signs of indulgence, but signs of a heart filled with faith.
His love extended beyond his own family. He would greet children, play with them, and offer them gifts. There are accounts of him shortening his prayer upon hearing a child cry, understanding the distress of both the infant and the mother. This sensitivity reflects a deep-seated compassion that defined his entire prophethood.
Respect Towards Children in Islam: Honoring Their Personhood
The Prophet Muhammad treatment of children was rooted in a fundamental respect towards children in Islam. He recognized their inherent rights as individuals and never belittled them, even in seemingly small matters.
He listened to them. A young companion, Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him), recounted how the Prophet ﷺ once took the time to advise him on guarding the commandments of Allah, speaking to him with the seriousness one would afford an elder. This act instilled immense confidence and value in the young boy, who grew up to become one of the greatest scholars of the Ummah.
He never humiliated them. In a famous incident, a young boy named Umar ibn Abi Salamah was eating with the Prophet ﷺ, and his hand was wandering all over the plate. Instead of scolding him, the Prophet ﷺ gently guided him with the words, “Young boy, mention the Name of Allah, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is directly in front of you” (Sahih al-Bukhari). The correction was made with love and instruction, not with anger or shame.
This profound respect is the foundation of the rights of children in Islam. They have the right to a good name, the right to proper upbringing (tarbiyah), the right to education, and the right to be treated with justice and kindness. The Prophet ﷺ embodied these rights, showing that a child’s feelings and dignity are sacred.
Lessons for Islamic Parenting: Embodying the Prophetic Way
The Islamic parenting Prophet teachings provide a timeless framework for raising confident, faithful, and emotionally healthy children. In an age of distraction and pressure, the Seerah offers a return to simplicity and heart-centered connection.
- Lead with Mercy, Not Just Rules: The primary lesson is to let mercy lead our actions. As the Prophet ﷺ said, “He is not one of us who does not have mercy upon our young” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi). Discipline is necessary, but it must be wrapped in compassion and wisdom, not harshness.
- Be Present and Playful: The image of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ playing with children is a powerful reminder for parents to engage joyfully with their children. This builds an unbreakable bond of love and trust, making children more receptive to guidance.
- Respect Their Individuality: Just as the Prophet ﷺ spoke respectfully to children, we must value their opinions, listen to their concerns, and avoid public shaming. This builds their self-esteem and teaches them self-respect.
- Make Dua and Express Love Verbally: The Prophet ﷺ made sincere supplications for children. We should follow his example, praying for their righteousness and openly expressing our love for them through words and physical affection.
- Prioritize Spiritual and Emotional Nourishment: Parenting in Islam lessons from Seerah teaches us that our goal is not just to raise successful individuals, but to nurture souls that are connected to Allah. This begins by creating a home environment filled with the remembrance of Allah, kindness, and patience.
Conclusion: Embodying the Prophetic Compassion in Our Homes
The life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is a beacon of light, guiding us in every facet of life, including how we treat our children. His Prophet Muhammad treatment of children—filled with love, mercy, and profound respect—is a divine blueprint for building a righteous and compassionate society. By revisiting the stories of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and children, we are reminded that our greatest legacy is not in the wealth we leave behind, but in the faith and character we instill in the next generation.
Let us strive to fill our homes with the same tenderness that the Prophet ﷺ demonstrated. Let us kiss our children, play with them, listen to them, and guide them with a gentle hand and a soft heart. In doing so, we do not just raise better children; we become better Muslims, embodying the very mercy that our beloved Prophet ﷺ was sent to complete.
Learn more about Islamic parenting and prophetic teachings at KMY Academy.
