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*The Perils of Pampering: Raising Disciplined, God-Conscious Children*
In a world that glorifies instant gratification, indulgence, and materialism, we risk raising a generation that lacks resilience, respect, and responsibility. The saying, *"A pampered child becomes a spoiled adult,"* holds profound truth. If we fail to discipline our children today, we may find ourselves helplessly watching them struggle tomorrow or worse, witnessing them turn into entitled, inconsiderate adults.
*Discipline is not oppression, it is love in action*. It is the framework that shapes a child’s character, teaching them that life does not always bend to their will. If we refuse to instill these values at home, the world will teach them often in ways we would never approve of.
Islam places immense emphasis on disciplined upbringing. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
> *"Command your children to pray at the age of seven, and discipline them for it at the age of ten."* (Sunan Abi Dawud)
This Hadith highlights a fundamental principle: gradual, firm, and compassionate discipline. Islam does not advocate harshness but encourages structured guidance, teaching children accountability while maintaining mercy.
*1. Discipline Begins at Home*
Allah says in the Qur’an:
> *"O you who believe! Protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones..."* (Qur’an 66:6)
This verse reminds parents of their duty to nurture their children with righteousness. If we spare discipline today, we risk raising rebellious, ungrateful adults. A child who grows up without boundaries becomes an adult who respects no boundaries not even those set by Allah.
*2. Respect for Parents and Teachers*
Islam elevates the status of parents and teachers, making their respect obligatory. The Qur’an states:
> *"And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him, and that you be kind to parents..."* (Qur’an 17:23)
A child who is not taught to respect authority figures at home will struggle to submit to divine authority. Spoiling a child leads to arrogance, while disciplined upbringing fosters humility and gratitude.
*3. Gratitude and Contentment*
A pampered child grows accustomed to having every whim fulfilled, leading to entitlement. The Prophet (ﷺ) warned against materialism:
> *"If the son of Adam had a valley of gold, he would desire another..."* (Bukhari)
Teaching children to value what they have rather than constantly demanding more instills contentment (*qana’ah*), a key Islamic virtue.
*Practical Steps for Islamic Discipline*
*1. Set Clear Boundaries*
Children thrive on structure. Establish rules with wisdom whether in screen time, manners, or worship. The balance between firmness and gentleness is crucial.
*2. Teach Through Consequences*
Islam teaches that actions have consequences. If a child misbehaves, let them experience natural repercussions (without cruelty). This prepares them for adulthood, where accountability is inevitable.
*3. Prioritize Faith Over Materialism*
Gadgets entertain, but they don’t nurture the soul. Replace excessive screen time with Quality Time and Quranic stories, Islamic lessons, and family worship. A child connected to Allah is less likely to fall into disobedience.
*4. Lead by Example*
Children imitate what they see. If we want them to pray, we must pray. If we want them to respect, we must show respect. *Discipline starts with the parents’ own behavior.*
*Conclusion*
Raising disciplined, God-conscious children is not just a parental duty it is a societal responsibility. A spoiled child becomes a broken adult, but a disciplined child grows into a responsible, respectful, and resilient believer.
Let us not shy away from teaching our children the hard truths of life. Let us correct with compassion, guide with wisdom, and anchor them in faith. In doing so, we don’t just raise good children we raise the future leaders of a righteous Ummah.
*Discipline them today, or regret tomorrow.* ✨
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Source: received through the WhatsApp message