Parenting

Muslims are everywhere! We live in Muslim countries and non-Muslim lands, in small towns, suburbs and sprawling cities. Sometimes our homes are in predominantly Muslim neighborhoods or, we may be the only Muslims on the block.

Worried about your teenage child missing the afternoon prayer or Friday prayers because of school? Or concerned that the school is focusing too much on Halloween or Christmas in their lessons and activities, with no inclusion of other celebrations, especially Eid?

Being model citizens is part of our faith as Muslims. The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, said: 

“The most beloved people to Allah are those who are the most beneficial to people…” 

(Al Mujam Al-Aswat – At-Tabarani)

Negotiating the public school system in the U.S. can be a challenge for every Muslim child. There is likely to be differences in diets, dress, holidays celebrated, and general ignorance of the fundamentals of our faith ranging from naïve misunderstanding to blatant Islamophobia.

The Quran is the Word of Allah and an answer to the prayers of those who call upon Him for guidance. The first chapter of the Quran, Surah Al-Fatihah, also named The Opening, is a supplication to the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth, to keep us on the Straight Path.

There are numerous reasons why Muslim parents want their children to memorize the Quran. It is part of our tradition and a feat that sets us apart from other religious adherents.