Every year, 14 November is celebrated as "Children's Day" in our country. On this day, we think about the importance of children, their rights, and their future.
In India, this day is celebrated on the birthday of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, because he loved children very much.
But let's see today what is the teaching about children in Islam? How have Allah and His Messenger (peace be upon him) told us to treat children?
The place of children in Islam
According to Islam, every child is a blessing (grace) from Allah. Allah says in the Quran:
"Wealth and children are the adornment of this world."
(Surah Al-Kahf 18:46)
That is, children are not just a responsibility, but they are a beautiful gift from Allah.
Loving children, taking care of them, and giving them the right education these are the duties of parents.
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and Love for Children
The life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a beautiful example of love for children. He always treated children with humility, love and kindness.
Once a companion said, “Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), I am not in the habit of kissing children.”
To this, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“He who does not show mercy, will not be shown mercy.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5997)
That is, showing mercy and love for children is part of faith. The Prophet (peace be upon him) himself used to play with his grandchildren, pick them up, and place his hands on their heads.
Islamic teachings about children’s rights
Islam has given children rights from birth. Today, the world talks about “Child Rights”, but Islam gave these rights 1400 years ago.
1️⃣ Rights before birth
Islam says that religion and character should be given priority when choosing a suitable partner because they affect the lives of future children.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“A woman is married for four reasons — for her wealth, for her lineage, for her beauty, and for her religion. Follow her religion — and you will be well.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5090)
2️⃣ Rights after birth
When a child is born, the call to prayer is given in his ear. This means that his life begins with the name of Allah. He is then given a beautiful Islamic name.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Give your children beautiful names.”
(Sunan Abu Dawud, Hadith 4948)
Responsibility for raising children
Islam tells parents that it is their duty to raise their children properly. Not just feeding them, but also giving them the knowledge of Allah, good character, and education is the true test of parenting.
The Quran says:
"O you who believe! Save yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is men and stones."
(Surah At-Tahrim 66:6)
This means giving children not only worldly but also religious education.
Child Abuse — Islam Condemns
Today, many children suffer from hunger, poverty, beatings, child labor, lack of education. Islam strongly opposes such injustice. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Allah is an enemy to the one who wrongs the orphan or the weak.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3678)
Raising hands on children, belittling them this is not the Islamic way.
Islam teaches that children are a trust given to them by Allah.
Importance of Education for Children
Islam has given a very high priority to education. Whether it is a boy or a girl both have the right to education.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Acquiring knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim man and woman.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 224)
Today, we see that in some places, girls’ education is still stopped. But Islam says both boys and girls are slaves of Allah, both should be given equal respect and opportunities.
Islamic way of dealing with children
Children are young, they make mistakes, but parents should explain them with love, not using harsh words.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The best of you is the one who treats his family best.”
(Sahih Tirmidhi, Hadith 3895)
That is, our goodness starts at home. Instead of getting angry with children, understanding them is the Islamic way of life.
Children are the future of society
Every child is a new seed of society. If we give him love, education, and virtue then tomorrow the society will be beautiful.
Islam says raising good children is a continuous practice of good deeds.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“When a person dies, all his deeds stop, except for three things — continuous charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous (good) son who prays for him.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1631)
That is, if parents raise their children well, then their virtue continues to flow even after their death.
Instilling Islamic values in children
Children should be given Islamic values from an early age. For example:
Teach them to say “Assalamu Alaikum”.
Do not lie, do not steal, perform Salah, these should be taught from an early age.
Tell stories from the Quran, such as the patience of Prophet Yusuf (AS), the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), and the truthfulness of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Doing so helps children become good and kind.
November 14 Not just a celebration, but a day to reflect
Children's Day is not just a day for singing, dancing, or giving gifts. It is a day to remind ourselves of our responsibilities.
We should think, Are the children in our homes and communities safe? Are they getting the right education? Do we give them love, guidance, and time?
The message of Islam — Every child is entitled to love and opportunity
The Quran says:
“And We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents.”
(Surah Al-Isra 17:23)
This command is both parents should be kind to their children, and children should respect their parents.
Islam teaches that,
* Children are the future of society,
* Parents have the responsibility to shape them,
* And society has the responsibility to provide them with opportunities.
Conclusion
14 November “Children’s Day” is not just a day, but a reminder that there are thousands of children around us who need love, care, and education.
The message of Islam is very simple,
“Be kind to those on earth, and He who is in the heavens will be kind to you.”
(Sunan Tirmidhi, Hadith 1924)
Loving children is to gain the mercy of Allah. Let us resolve today to make every child’s childhood beautiful, safe, and bright.
May Allah Ta’ala grant us the tawfeeq to treat our children with love, responsibility, and kindness. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Children’s Day on 14 November and its connection with Islam’s teachings about children.
These answers help readers understand the real purpose of celebrating this day through both social values and the spiritual guidance that Islam provides for raising and caring for children.
1. Why is Children’s Day celebrated on 14 November in India?
Children’s Day in India is celebrated on 14 November every year to honor Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s first Prime Minister. He was deeply fond of children and believed they are the foundation of a nation’s future. After his death in 1964, his birthday was declared as Bal Diwas or Children’s Day. The celebration reminds us of his vision to give every child love, care, and education.
2. What is the real purpose of celebrating Children’s Day?
The main purpose of Children’s Day is to raise awareness about children’s rights, education, and happiness. It reminds parents, teachers, and society to ensure every child grows up in a safe, loving, and nurturing environment. The day also encourages efforts to eliminate child labor, inequality, and neglect making sure every child gets the opportunity to dream and learn.
3. What are Islam’s teachings about children?
Islam gives special importance to children as a trust (Amanah) from Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) showed great love and mercy toward children. He said, “He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young.” (Tirmidhi) Islam commands parents to provide education, good manners, and moral upbringing. A child’s heart is pure; it is the parents’ duty to shape it with kindness, justice, and faith.
4. How is the message of Islam similar to the spirit of Children’s Day?
Both Islam and Children’s Day emphasize love, education, and respect for children. While Children’s Day is a social reminder to care for the young, Islam made it a spiritual and moral responsibility. Islam teaches that raising righteous children is an act of worship, and neglecting them is a sin. Thus, both encourage building a world where children grow with dignity and guidance.
5. How can Muslim families make Children’s Day more meaningful?
Muslim families can make Children’s Day more meaningful by spending quality time, teaching Islamic values, and showing affection. Instead of focusing only on gifts or parties, parents can help children learn compassion by giving charity, visiting orphanages, or reading stories of the Prophets. This turns the celebration into a day of gratitude, kindness, and moral learning.
6. When is Universal Children’s Day celebrated worldwide?
Universal Children’s Day is observed on 20 November every year. It was established by the United Nations in 1954 to promote children’s rights globally including education, health, and protection from exploitation. India celebrates its own Children’s Day on 14 November in memory of Nehru, while 20 November marks a global movement for child welfare and peace.
7. What message should we take from Children’s Day in today’s world?
The message of Children’s Day is to respect, protect, and nurture every child. It’s not just a day for fun, it’s a reminder that children are the future builders of our society. In Islam, this aligns with the duty to raise children with love, fairness, and faith. A nation that invests in its children’s hearts and minds builds a brighter and more peaceful future.
Recommended Books to Deepen Your Understanding
Here are a few authentic and inspiring books you can read for free (PDF format):
Towards Understanding Islam Download pdf
The Scientific Truths of The Quran Download pdf
The Sealed Nectar (Ar-Raheeq AI-Makhturn) Download pdf
Concept of Prophethood in Different Religions Download pdf
Muhammad The Prophet of Islam Download pdf
Each book offers a new window into the compassion, justice, and humanity of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Tags
Children’s Day, Islam and Children, Quran Teachings, Prophet Muhammad, Parenting in Islam, Child Rights, Islamic Values, Muslim Family, Islamic Guidance, Moral Education
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