Mosque Foundation

Don’t Make Du‘a Against Your Children

One of the greatest social values emphasized by our faith is the recognition of responsibility. We are accountable for our actions, and on the Day of Judgment, Allah will question us about our responsibilities—whether we remember them or not. This reality is a core teaching of Islam:

“On the Day when Allah will resurrect them all and inform them of what they did. Allah has kept account of it, while they have forgotten it. And Allah is Witness over all things” (Quran 58:6).

Among these responsibilities are those we bear not only for ourselves but also for our families. As the Prophet ﷺ said: “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you will be questioned about his flock” (Hadith, Sahih al-Bukhari). We will inevitably be asked about everything under our care, including our children, who hold a special place in this trust:

“Indeed, the losers are the ones who will lose themselves and their families on the Day of Resurrection. Unquestionably, that is the manifest loss” (Quran 39:15).

Children are an amanah from Allah, and the way we raise them reflects directly on us. They are like clay, shaped by the environment we create and the values we impart. Neglecting this responsibility can have lifelong consequences, distancing them from their faith or weakening their sense of self-worth. Imam al-Ghazali reminded us that children will incline to whatever their parents incline them toward, as they accept the impressions imprinted upon them.

Parents must ask themselves: Am I my child’s first source of trauma? Am I teaching them self-worth, confidence, and love? Am I fulfilling their rights by giving them a good name, teaching them the Quran, and showing them mercy? The Prophet ﷺ modeled this beautifully in his relationship with Fatimah. Aishah narrated: “Whenever she would enter upon the Prophet ﷺ, he would stand up for her, kiss her, and seat her in his place” (Hadith, Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi).

At the same time, children have responsibilities toward their parents. Both parents and children are tested in their roles, and neither can justify neglect or harm. The Prophet ﷺ cautioned against making du‘a against oneself, one’s children, or one’s wealth, warning that such a prayer might coincide with a moment when Allah answers:

“Do not pray against yourselves, do not pray against your children, and do not pray against your wealth, lest that coincides with a time when Allah is asked and He gives, so He answers your prayer” (Hadith, Sahih Muslim).

Part of fulfilling a child’s right is preparing them for adulthood—guiding them, advising them, and mentoring them. Parents should reflect: If I were to leave this world today, how would my children remember me? When we are laid to rest, the world will move on, but our children will carry our memory, our lessons, and our legacy.

May Allah make us among those who uphold our responsibilities, who nurture our children with love and faith, and who remain true to the trusts He has given us.

By Imam Basheer Abdeen

Companionship Before Direction

The Hijrah of the Prophet ﷺ was a deliberate journey marked by faith, wisdom, and choice. Before taking a single step out of Makkah, the Prophet ﷺ chose who would walk beside him: Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA). This choice was an act that reflected trust, love, legacy, and a reminder that in every meaningful journey, who you walk with matters just as much as where you’re going.

When the Prophet ﷺ came to Abu Bakr (RA) and said, “Permission has been granted for me to migrate,” Abu Bakr responded, “May I be your companion?” The Prophet ﷺ replied, “You will be my companion.”

Why Abu Bakr? Five qualities made him the ideal companion worthy of this high honor—traits we should seek in our own closest relationships.

1. Sincere Love

The love between the Prophet ﷺ and Abu Bakr (RA) was selfless and pure. When asked who was dearest to him, the Prophet ﷺ replied, “Aishah,” and when asked, “Among men?” he said, “Her father.” On the journey, Abu Bakr insisted the Prophet ﷺ drink first, saying, “He drank until I was satisfied.” Choose someone who loves you for the sake of Allah—not for status, convenience, or gain.

2. Faith and Righteousness

Abu Bakr (RA) once fasted, followed a funeral, fed the poor, and visited the sick—all in a single day. The Prophet ﷺ said these acts together guarantee Paradise. Umar (RA) said, “If the faith of Abu Bakr were placed on one side of the scale, and the Ummah on the other, his faith would outweigh them.” Seek companions whose very presence uplifts your faith.

3. Generosity and Sacrifice

Abu Bakr (RA) gave everything—his wealth, his family, his comfort—for the sake of Islam. The Prophet ﷺ said, “If I were to take a close friend besides my Lord, it would be Abu Bakr.” Look for someone who shows up when it matters, who puts others before themselves.

4. Strength in Times of Weakness

At Badr, as the Prophet ﷺ prayed intensely, Abu Bakr (RA) gently said, “Enough, O Messenger of Allah… He will fulfill His promise.” He brought calm in the midst of fear. Find someone who steadies your heart when yours begins to tremble.

5. Trust and Leadership

In the Prophet’s final illness, he said three times, “Tell Abu Bakr to lead the prayer.” When others hesitated, the Prophet ﷺ knew who he could trust. Choose someone who can carry your trust and represent your values when you’re not there.

There were many companions, but only one Abu Bakr. If you find someone like him, hold on to them. If not, be that person for someone else. Be the kind of friend who gives others the courage to say: “Don’t worry. Allah is with us” (Quran 9:40).

By Imam Jafar Hawa

Let Bygones Be Bygones

One of the noble qualities of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was his remarkable ability to overlook people’s past mistakes. He didn’t dwell on faults or hold anyone hostage to their history. He chose kindness over criticism, mercy over blame, and forbearance over judgment. His character was shaped by compassion for the repentant and for those striving to change.

“There has certainly come to you a Messenger from among yourselves. Grievous to him is what you suffer; [he is] concerned over you and to the believers is kind and merciful” (Quran 9:128).

When Abu Bakr (RA) entered and found Aishah (RA) raising her voice, he moved to strike her, saying, “Do I see you raising your voice over the Messenger of Allah?” The Prophet ﷺ stepped in, shielding her. After Abu Bakr stormed off, the Prophet ﷺ turned to Aishah and smiled, “Did you see how I protected you from that man?” When Abu Bakr returned and found them reconciled, he joked, “Let me be part of your peace as I was part of your conflict.” The Prophet ﷺ replied, “We have done so.” He never brought it up again.

Before Islam, Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) once plotted to kill the Prophet ﷺ. Yet the moment he embraced Islam, the Prophet ﷺ welcomed him without a word about the past. He praised him, saying: “Allah has placed the truth upon Umar’s tongue and in his heart.”

Khalid ibn al-Walid (RA), who led the enemy at Uhud, accepted Islam in the eighth year of Hijrah. The Prophet ﷺ greeted him with a smile and said: “What an excellent servant of Allah is Khalid ibn al-Walid—a sword from the swords of Allah.”

Anas ibn Malik (RA), who served the Prophet ﷺ for ten years, said: “He never once said to me, ‘Why did you do this?’ or ‘Why didn’t you do that?’” He understood the nature of youth and treated them with patience and gentleness.

The Prophet ﷺ lived by the principle: “Islam erases what came before it, and repentance erases what came before it” (Bukhari).

Let Things Go

These examples carry a powerful message: let things go. Our relationships flourish when we stop dragging yesterday into today. To spouses: Stop keeping score. Let love grow through silence and forgiveness. To parents: Don’t crush your children with constant reminders of the past. Build them up with belief in their future. A child burdened by shame loses hope. To children: Even if your parents were once harsh, respond with maturity and understanding. No one raises children perfectly, and your parents love you. Honor them by letting go.

Allah covers the sins of the repentant: “Allah will bring the believer close, shield him, and say, ‘Do you remember this sin? That sin?’ The believer will say, ‘Yes, my Lord.’ Until he thinks he is doomed, Allah will say, ‘I concealed it for you in the worldly life, and today I forgive it’” (Bukhari).

Since Allah forgives and conceals, shouldn’t we?

Shut the old files—open new pages of grace. If we want Allah to treat us with kindness, let us begin with one another: Let bygones be bygones.

By Imam Jafar Hawa

The Hijra of the Soul

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and our religion call us to be reflective, thoughtful individuals. In all matters, the Prophet ﷺ looked for signs of Allah’s guidance and presence. In one of his profound reflections, he said:

“Time has completed its cycle and has returned to its state when Allah created the heavens and the earth. The year consists of twelve months, of which four are sacred: three consecutive—Dhu al-Qi‘dah, Dhu al-Hijjah, and Muharram—and Rajab of Mudar, which comes between Jumāda and Sha‘bān” (Bukhari & Muslim). This powerful hadith reminds us of time’s unceasing flow—constant, irreversible, and governed by the divine order with perfect precision.

The Hijri calendar itself was established during the rule of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), in the 17th year after Hijra. Though the Prophet’s ﷺ migration occurred in Rabi’ al-Awwal, the companions agreed to begin the calendar with Muharram. It was chosen not for historical accuracy but for symbolic depth: Muharram follows Dhul Hijjah, the month of Hajj, and marks a spiritual renewal—a new chapter for the Ummah.

The Hijra was not just a change in geography; it was a transformation of the heart. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“A Muslim is one from whose tongue and hands others are safe. And a Muhajir is the one who leaves behind what Allah has forbidden” (Bukhari & Muslim).

Before the body migrates, the soul must first turn toward Allah. Hijra begins by abandoning sin and walking the path of sincerity and submission.

The companions knew this firsthand. They faced years of persecution in Mecca—yet stood firm in faith, resisting a society rooted in injustice and idolatry. Allah’s Messenger ﷺ gave them hope with the promise:

“You will never leave something for the sake of Allah, except that He will replace it with something better” (Musnad Ahmad).

This is no empty phrase. It is a divine truth. Abu Bakr (RA), Sohaib al-Rumi (RA), and others left behind family, wealth, and safety—all for the sake of Allah, trusting that what awaited them was far greater.

Allah says:

“That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous” (Quran 28:83).

The Hijra of the Prophet ﷺ teaches us that real success is not in status or comfort, but in aligning our lives with the principles of faith, justice, and truth. Let us make our own Hijra—away from sin, toward Allah. May we live with sincerity, reflect deeply, and strive to become people of purpose.

By Imam Basheer Abdeen

Wings of Honor: Reflections for Our Graduates

Graduation marks a moment of triumph—a time to reflect on years of hard work, perseverance, and the many sacrifices made along the way. As families gather to honor their graduates, we are reminded of the words of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ: “Indeed, the angels lower their wings for the seeker of knowledge out of pleasure with what he seeks” (Tirmidhi).

This hadith reminds us that seeking knowledge is more than a personal journey—it is a noble pursuit honored by the heavens.

We begin by extending heartfelt congratulations to every parent whose son or daughter is graduating this year. Your patience, guidance, and sacrifice have borne fruit. May Allah bless what you’ve nurtured and make it bountiful and lasting.

To the graduates: We celebrate your remarkable achievement. May Allah accept your efforts, elevate you through knowledge, and grant you success both in this life and the next. As the Quran teaches: “Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees” (Quran 58: 11).

As you step into a new phase of life, I offer three reflections—gifts, I pray, that will stay with you for the journey ahead.

1. Show Gratitude and Keep Seeking

Every success is a blessing from Allah, who taught you what you did not know and guided you to this point. The Quran says: “And taught you that which you did not know. And ever has the favor of Allah upon you been great” (Quran 4: 113).

Be grateful: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]” (Quran 14: 7).

And keep seeking. Knowledge is vast. We’ve been given “but little,” as Allah reminds us in Surah Al-Isra (17:85). Even the Prophet ﷺ was commanded: “And say, ‘My Lord, increase me in knowledge” (Quran 20: 114).

Let gratitude lead to humility—and let humility fuel a lifelong thirst for learning.

2. Embrace Responsibility

Graduation brings new roles. For university graduates, it is time to pursue a lawful provision. Be honest in your work, choose integrity over shortcuts, and remember that your sustenance is guaranteed, but Paradise is not. Prioritize your relationship with Allah in every decision.

For high school graduates, a significant choice lies ahead—the field to which you’ll commit your time and energy. Whether it’s medicine, engineering, education, politics, AI, or another path, choose something that uplifts you and benefits your community. Don’t underestimate your value. As you enter new spaces where right and wrong may blur, remain firm. Preserve your character, your faith, and your identity. Carry your family’s name—and your deen—with pride. Be confident ambassadors of Islam and positive examples for others.

3. Purify Your Knowledge and Actions

The world needs your contribution. Your community needs your presence—volunteer at the Masjid. Help build institutions rooted in justice and truth. The Ummah looks to you for service, sincerity, and strength. Teach what you’ve learned—this is the zakat of knowledge. Fulfill your work with excellence—this is the zakat of action.

The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever preserves his youth will enter Paradise.”

Trust and integrity are key. Remember the story of young Ibn Mas’ud, who was praised by the Prophet ﷺ for his honesty while guarding sheep. Allah says: “Indeed, We offered the Trust to the heavens and the earth and the mountains, but they declined to bear it… but man undertook to bear it” (Quran 33: 72).

May Allah bless your journey. May He make you a source of goodness for your families, your communities, and the Ummah. And may He grant you honor in this life and the next.

Congratulations, graduates—your wings are ready. Fly high with faith, knowledge, and purpose.

Imam Jafar Hawa

The Spirit of Unity Through the Lens of Hajj

As the sacred days of Dhul-Hijjah draw near and pilgrims prepare to leave for the sacred house of Allah, we are presented once again with one of the most powerful spiritual spectacles on earth: the pilgrimage of Hajj. It is more than a journey of rituals. It is a living symbol—a profound reminder—of what it means to be part of a unified, God-conscious nation. In this moment, we are called not just to witness Hajj, but to reflect on its lessons and let them reshape our daily lives and relationships with one another.

Among the many layers of meaning in Hajj, one stands out this year with particular urgency: the concept of Ummah, of being one united community. This idea is not a slogan or a wishful thought—it is a divine reality that Allah repeatedly reminds us of throughout the Quran. In Surat al-Hajj, Allah opens with a universal call: “O mankind, fear your Lord! Indeed, the earthquake of the Hour is a terrible thing.” It is a reminder that the gathering of people on the Day of Judgment will mirror, in some ways, the mass of humanity that we see in Hajj. There is no stronger earthly image of people coming together—regardless of race, status, or origin—than this gathering in devotion to one Lord.

And near the end of the same surah, the address shifts to a more specific audience: “O you who believe, bow down and prostrate, and worship your Lord and do good, so that you may succeed.” As if to say: now that you’ve stood among the masses, now that you’ve heard the universal call, it’s your turn to live its truth. You, the believers, carry the torch of this message. Your identity is not individualistic. It is rooted in the legacy of your father, Ibrahim (AS) — the one who gave you your rituals. The Prophet ﷺ reminded his companions during Hajj: “Remain at your stations, for you are standing on the heritage of your father, Ibrahim (AS).”

This shared spiritual heritage demands more than outward unity. It demands brotherhood—real, committed, responsible brotherhood. Allah says clearly: “Indeed this nation of yours is one nation, and I am your Lord—so fear Me.” We are bound not by language or ethnicity, but by the One who created us and by the revelation that guides us.
But what does this brotherhood look like in practice?

The Prophet ﷺ gave us the clearest roadmap in powerful Hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah (RA). He said:
“Do not envy one another. Do not artificially inflate prices. Do not hate or turn your backs on one another. Do not undercut one another in business deals. Instead, be servants of Allah—as brothers.”

He continues: “A Muslim is the brother of another Muslim. He does not oppress him, humiliate him, or look down on him. Piety is here,” — and he pointed to his chest three times — “It is enough evil for a Muslim to hold his brother in contempt. Everything belonging to a Muslim is sacred to his fellow Muslim: his blood, his property, and his honor.”
This is the ethical code of our Ummah. It is a code that should be renewed every Hajj season, not just through rituals, but through sincere change in how we treat each other. Whether we are among the pilgrims or not, the message of Hajj is meant for all of us. It is meant to challenge our grudges, our divisions, and our indifference.

Look beside you. The one sitting next to you in prayer is your brother. The one who walks the same path of faith is your sister. Let us not wait for the Day of Judgment to realize how much we were connected. Let us live it now—through compassion, justice, humility, and active care for one another. The pilgrimage may be for a few days, but the lessons of Hajj are for a lifetime.

Imam Jafar Hawa
The Mosque Foundation

Dhul-Hijjah: A Season of Renewal and Recharge

As Dhul-Hijjah approaches, we welcome some of the most blessed days of the entire year. These ten days are an extraordinary opportunity for spiritual growth and renewal—a time to refuel our hearts and reconnect with Allah.

Allah Himself emphasizes the greatness of these days in Surah Al-Fajr, swearing by them as a sign of their immense virtue: “By the ten nights” (Quran 89:2). The Messenger of Allah ﷺ reinforced their significance, stating: “There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days,” referring to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah (Sunan Ibn Majah). This sacred season is a spiritual high point—one that allows us to reignite our faith and prepare for what lies ahead. During these days, rewards are multiplied, and blessings descend in abundance.

Some may wonder, “I’m not going for Hajj—does this still apply to me?” The answer is a resounding yes. While Hajj is a central act of worship during Dhul-Hijjah, these ten days are not reserved for the pilgrims alone. Every believer, wherever they may be, can draw closer to Allah during this time. These days offer a powerful spiritual boost, especially for those who may feel their momentum has faded since Ramadan. Just as the year has its peaks and valleys, so does our iman.

As we enter this sacred season, we must ask ourselves: How will I use these days? Will I seize this chance to draw nearer to Allah, or will I let it slip away?

Engage in All Acts of Goodness
Whether it’s visiting the sick, encouraging others to remember the virtues of Dhul-Hijjah, or performing any deed that brings you closer to Allah, embrace every opportunity to do good.

Focus on Dua
These days are an ideal time to speak to Allah. Pour your heart out in supplication. Seek forgiveness, guidance, and blessings—not only for yourself but for the entire Ummah.

Fast with Intention
While fasting during the first nine days is commendable, the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah—the Day of Arafah—holds unique merit. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for the previous year and the following year” (Muslim).

Recite the Quran
The reward for reciting the Quran during these days is immense. Ibn Abbas reported that for every letter recited in Dhul-Hijjah, the reward is multiplied 700 times.

Remember Allah Often
Let your tongue be moist with dhikr—SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar. Make your remembrance both private and public, inspiring others to glorify Allah alongside you.

Let Dhul-Hijjah be a time of renewal—a moment to awaken our hearts and reflect on Allah’s boundless mercy. May we make the most of these blessed days, and may they become a source of light for us in this life and the next.

Imam Basheer Abdeen

They Are Thirteen Days: They Are the Best

As we enter the blessed days of Dhul-Hijjah, we are reminded that these are not ordinary days. These are days chosen by Allah, filled with mercy, virtue, and reward. They come once a year and they come swiftly. We often speak of the “first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah” as the best days of the year, and rightfully so, based on the hadith of the Prophet ﷺ: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” [Reported by Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood, and others]

But in truth, the virtuous season spans thirteen days, not just ten. Let us pause here. Thirteen days, from the first of Dhul-Hijjah until the thirteenth, inclusive of the Day of Arafah, the Day of Sacrifice, and the three days of Tashreeq. These days are unlike any others, and each one carries a unique shade of divine mercy.
The Day of Arafah — the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah — is the pinnacle. Fasting on this day expiates the sins of the previous year and the one to come. The Prophet ﷺ said: “I hope from Allah that fasting on the day of Arafah expiates the sins of the year before and the year after.”

[Reported by Muslim], It is also the greatest day for dua’a: “The best supplication is the supplication on the Day of Arafah.” [Reported by Malik]
Then comes the Day of Sacrifice (10th of Dhul-Hijjah) — the day of Eid, of slaughtering, of remembering Ibrahim’s submission and Ismaʿil’s trust. The Prophet ﷺ called it: “The greatest day in the sight of Allah is the Day of Sacrifice, then the Day of Rest (Yawm al-Qarr).”

[Reported by Abu Dawood, Ibn Hibban]
That next day, Yawm al-Qarr (the Day of Rest) — the 11th — marks the first of the three days of Tashreeq, when pilgrims rest in Mina, and all Muslims continue the remembrance of Allah. These are days of celebration, but also days of worship. The Prophet ﷺ described them as: “Days of eating, drinking, and remembering Allah.” [Reported by Malik]
These three days — the 11th, 12th, and 13th — are referred to in the Qur’an as “the numbered days” (أيام معدودات), and are included in the wider praise found in the verse: “That they may mention the name of Allah on known days.” (Surat al-Hajj: 28), which Ibn Abbas (RA) explained as the first ten days, and the “numbered days” in Surat al-Baqarah as the days of Tashreeq.
So yes, they are thirteen. And they are the best.

But their excellence is not limited to fasting or sacrifice. Every righteous deed is magnified: prayer, charity, kindness, helping family, forgiving others, visiting the sick, and remembering Allah. Even a small good deed in these days may outweigh great actions on other days.

Let us not limit ourselves. Let us not lose this opportunity. If you cannot offer a sacrifice, then offer a smile. If you cannot fast, then speak a kind word. If you cannot stand on Arafah, then stand in prayer during the night. Allah accepts from every sincere heart.

As these days pass quickly and quietly, remember: they are a gift. Thirteen chances to draw nearer. Thirteen reminders that this life is not about routine, but about moments that can transform us forever.

Imam Jafar Hawa
The Mosque Foundation

A Prophetic Approach to Harmonious Relationships

In our society, we frequently discuss relationships and the challenges they present. Relationships can be complex, and our Nafs (ego) naturally seeks ease. Yet, this Dunya is not designed for comfort; it is filled with trials and difficulties. The only way to navigate these challenges is to embrace this reality and face problems head-on with a heart full of love for Allah and trust in His guidance. This shift in perspective is crucial: you are both the problem and the solution.

Many of the problems we encounter in our interactions stem from within ourselves, and we have the power to resolve them. However, a common obstacle is adopting a mindset that disables us—a sense of ‘ajz, or helplessness. Our beloved Prophet ﷺ advised us: “Be keen on your interests, don’t feel a sense of helplessness, and seek Allah’s help” (Sunan Ibn Majah). This teaches us to reject feelings of incapability. We cannot resign ourselves to merely complaining about our problems without striving to solve them.

Imagine how many of our issues could be resolved if we adopted a more prophetic approach in our interactions. Allah says in the Quran: “Say to My servants that they should (only) say those things that are best” (Quran 17:53). Shaytan often seeks to divide us—but how often do we open the door for him? The Prophet ﷺ taught us that negativity in our interactions, such as entering our homes with anger or failing to greet others warmly, creates an environment for Shaytan to sow discord.

Our Deen provides us with timeless guidance on the etiquette of communication (adab al-hiwar). Ask yourself: Are my conversations inspired by prophetic teachings? What obstacles stand in the way of a healthy relationship?

Content of Speech: The Prophet ﷺ warned against speech devoid of Allah’s remembrance or benefit. He said: “No people sit in a gathering without remembering Allah or sending blessings upon their Prophet, but that they will earn the displeasure of Allah” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi).

Negativity: Entering interactions with anger or negativity creates turmoil. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged us to be sources of peace and compassion. He said: “Shall I not tell you of something which, if you do it, you will love one another? Spread the greetings of Salam amongst yourselves” (Sunan Ibn Majah).

Exaggeration: Emotionally imbalanced responses—whether in praise or criticism—are harmful. The Prophet ﷺ praised virtues without exaggeration and avoided extreme reactions. As believers, we should avoid exaggeration, including in joking, as it can have a detrimental effect on our relationships and the tranquility of our hearts. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Do not laugh a lot. Much laughter kills the heart” (Sunan Ibn Majah).

Prioritizing Opinions Over Relationships: Valuing our opinions over our relationships leads to unnecessary conflicts. Many disputes can be prevented through the art of listening, which is emphasized in prophetic teachings. Notably, the Prophet ﷺ was not talkative; he spoke only when he had a valid reason.

Let us strive to embody the wisdom of the Prophet ﷺ in our relationships. By prioritizing principles over personal opinions, showing respect, and fostering compassion, we can overcome obstacles and build stronger, more meaningful connections.

May Allah make us among those who embody good manners and elevate our interactions.

Imam Basheer Abdeen

Spiritual Planning for the Summer

In life, anything worthwhile requires careful planning and a strategic approach. It is a principle rooted in the teachings of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, which reminds us that success, whether it occurs spiritually, personally, or within a family setting, requires intentionality and mindfulness. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, “Any matter of importance that is not commenced with the praise of Allah remains defective” (Abu Dawud). It is a way of life that ensures our actions are purposeful and productive.

For believers, this means not only planning for worldly matters but also dedicating equal, if not more, attention to spiritual planning. Just as we meticulously manage our finances, we must invest in nurturing our souls and seizing the opportunities Allah provides.

Two of Allah’s greatest blessings—good health and free time—are often taken for granted. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “Two blessings which many people squander: Good health and free time” (Sunan Ibn Majah). These gifts offer immense potential for growth but can also lead to ruin if misused. 

Our children’s lives are profoundly shaped by these blessings, and as parents, we should recognize their importance. With summer just around the corner, families, especially youth, are finding themselves with more free time. There is a great opportunity for growth during this season, but it also carries the risk of wasting potential. As parents, we must ask ourselves: How can we use this time to strengthen our bond with our children and guide them toward meaningful pursuits?

During his lifetime, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was a master at building others up, particularly the youth. His interactions were marked by empathy and care, making people feel valued and respected. For instance, when a young boy grieved over his pet bird, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ comforted him with compassion, teaching us the importance of connecting with others on a personal level. Anas bin Malik reported that the Messenger of Allah used to mix with us to the extent that he would say to a younger brother of mine, ‘O Aba `Umair! What did the Nughair (a kind of bird) do?” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

As parents, we can emulate this example by engaging with our children thoughtfully, helping them see life as more than just fleeting pleasures. By instilling a sense of purpose and self-worth, we can guide them to approach life with a refined and elevated outlook.

Life is precious and fleeting. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ reminded us to “take advantage of five before five”: youth before old age, health before sickness, wealth before poverty, free time before becoming busy, and life before death (Shu’ab al-Imān). These teachings urge us to prioritize what truly matters. For youth, this perspective is transformative. Their focus shifts from immediate gratification to long-term growth, enabling them to lead lives of integrity and responsibility.

Today’s youth face significant challenges, including a lack of commitment, patience, and self-control. These issues contribute to societal problems such as broken relationships, unstable careers, and mental health struggles. As parents, we must address these challenges by fostering resilience, responsibility, and a sense of duty in our children.

Summer, often seen as a carefree season, can be a turning point in a young person’s life. It can either be a time of growth or a period of regression. Parents must ensure that their children’s summer activities—whether vacations, community service, or personal development—contribute positively to their character and faith.

As we approach summer, let us view it as an opportunity for spiritual and personal growth, for ourselves and our families. May Allah bless this time, strengthen our faith, and protect us and our children from all sources of corruption.

Imam Basheer Abdeen