Raise children with mercy and vigilance
“Raising healthy children means raising a healthy future of the community.”
Children are a divine trust, so Muslim families and communities must raise them through mercy, active involvement, age-appropriate education, friendship, and vigilant protection from abuse.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Frames children as gifts from Allah and presents prophetic mercy toward children and respect for elders as the governing ethic.
- Explains that child rights begin before birth through choosing a spouse, giving a good name, and teaching faith.
- Urges young people to learn, practice, and share religious knowledge through daily study and personal effort.
- Presents staged child-rearing: play in early childhood, teach manners and worship next, then build friendship and leadership in adolescence.
- Warns against neglect and abuse, calling for supervision, listening, reporting, and zero tolerance across homes, schools, and mosques.
- Concludes with prayers for guidance, child protection, community strength, and relief for oppressed people.
In the khateeb's words
“raising healthy children means raising a healthy future of the community raising abused children means no future to this community”
“saying Alhamdulillah it's not enough verbally but we have the action will prove or disapprove what we are saying”
For the dinner table
The khateeb reminded us that children are a gift from Allah, and caring for them with mercy is a way of showing our gratitude. He described the Prophet’s affection for children and encouraged adults to join their play, listen to their feelings, and teach them with kindness. As children grow, learning should continue alongside play, and teenagers should be welcomed into friendship and meaningful responsibility. He also encouraged young people to build their own connection with Islam by learning, practicing, and sharing what they know. Finally, he stressed that protecting children is everyone’s responsibility: we must take concerns seriously, report abuse, and never protect someone’s reputation at a child’s expense.
- What would you enjoy having the adults in our family play or do with you?
- What is something you have learned about Islam that you would like us to practice together?
- What helps you feel comfortable telling a trusted adult when something is wrong?
The masjids
More on Youth & education
Muhammadi Masjid · Elmont, NY · Sep 25, 2026Parents must teach Islam at home“You have to save yourself and then you have to save your family from the fire of Jahannam.”
It starts at home by presenting the real role model for our children.29:05TARIC · Downsview, ON · Oct 31, 2026Parents shape their children's faith
ICOPS · Lynnwood, WA · Oct 17, 2026Parents must teach children Islam