The Ancient Practice of Sending Infants to Wet Nurses in Makkah

Uncovering the Reasons Behind Sending Infants to Wet Nurses in Pre-Islamic Makkah

Question: Why were the infants of Makkah sent to far-off areas? Was it only for their health and well-being, or was there another reason, given that no one can provide better care than a mother, yet this practice was common in Makkah?

Answer: In the pre-Islamic era, breastfeeding was a profession for women, particularly those who were poor. These women would breastfeed the children of wealthy families to earn a living. Therefore, infants were not deliberately sent to far-off areas; rather, women from those areas would come to Makkah seeking employment. This was a common practice of that time and had no relation to Islam. Islam values a mother nursing her own child as the best and most virtuous, and it has set the breastfeeding period at two years.

✍ Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (Hafizahullaah)

Jeddah Dawah Center – As-Salamah – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Author: IslamicHelper

IslamicHelper

Recent Articles

Authentic Salah References in Quran & Sunnah

Discover authentic Quranic and Hadith references on Salah for pure, correct Islamic worship Read More

2 days ago

Khadijah, Aisha, and Islam’s Female Scholars

Discover the pivotal roles of Khadijah, Aisha, and other remarkable women who shaped Islamic history through their leadership, intellect, and… Read More

5 days ago

Islam Explained: Top Questions Non-Muslims Ask

Explore Islam's core beliefs, practices, and views on modern issues through answers to frequently asked questions. Dispel myths and gain… Read More

5 days ago

Muslim Modern Life: Salaf Guidance

Discover how modern Muslims can balance faith and contemporary life using the Salaf methodology. Tackle cultural integration, identity, and staying… Read More

1 week ago

Forgiveness in Islam: Healing Through Quran & Hadith

Discover how forgiveness in Islam, guided by the Quran and Hadiths, can heal your heart and bring peace to your… Read More

1 week ago

Masjid Haram: A Marvel of Organization

Discover the astonishing scale, state-of-the-art facilities, and meticulous organization of Masjid Haram—a true marvel of faith and modern ingenuity Read More

1 week ago