The Islamic Importance of Raising Daughters: A Path to Paradise

The Role of Daughters in Islam: Love, Mercy, and a Gateway to Jannah

Islam, as a complete way of life, offers guidance on every aspect of human relationships, especially in the family. One of the most touching aspects of Islamic teachings is the profound love and care the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his noble companions (Sahaba) demonstrated toward their daughters. This love reflects not only compassion and mercy but also a path to salvation in the Hereafter.

The story of ʿAbd Allāh ibn Masʿūd رضي الله عنه, one of the closest companions of the Prophet ﷺ, is a beautiful example. It is narrated that when his young daughter ran to him, he embraced her, kissed her, and said:

“Welcome, O protection of ʿAbd Allāh from the Fire.”
[Makārim al-Akhlāq, al-Kharāiṭṭī 634]

This brief interaction highlights how the early Muslims viewed daughters—not as burdens or liabilities, as was common in pre-Islamic Arabia, but as a source of immense blessing, protection, and a means of salvation.

1. The Role of Daughters as a Means of Protection from the Hellfire

Islam transformed the societal view of daughters. Before the advent of Islam, daughters were often seen as a source of shame, and some tribes even practiced infanticide. However, the Qur’an emphatically condemned this practice:

“And when the girl [who was] buried alive is asked, for what sin she was killed.”
(Surah At-Takwir, 81:8-9)

Instead of being burdens, daughters became a source of mercy and a means of earning Allah’s pleasure. The love shown by Ibn Masʿūd رضي الله عنه for his daughter reflects the understanding that raising daughters with care and love can be a means of protection from the Hellfire.

2. The Status of Daughters in Islam

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ elevated the status of daughters through his teachings and personal example. He ﷺ said:

“Whoever supports two girls until they reach maturity, he and I will come on the Day of Resurrection like this,”
—and he joined his fingers to illustrate how close they would be.
[Narrated by Muslim]

This hadith highlights the immense reward for parents who raise their daughters with care and righteousness. It shows that raising daughters is not just a responsibility but also an opportunity to be in close proximity to the Prophet ﷺ in the Hereafter.

3. The Responsibility of Raising Daughters with Love and Care

Raising daughters in Islam is a noble act of worship that requires love, care, and proper guidance. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized the importance of nurturing daughters and ensuring they are provided with a good upbringing:

“He who is blessed with daughters and treats them kindly, they will act as a shield for him from Hellfire.”
[Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

This indicates that raising daughters with kindness and compassion leads to immense rewards in both this world and the Hereafter.

4. The Dua of Righteous Children: A Lifelong Investment

One of the most enduring benefits of raising righteous children, including daughters, is their continued supplication (du’a) for their parents after their death. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“When a person dies, their deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them.”
[Narrated by Muslim]

This hadith underscores the importance of raising children who will remember their parents in their prayers, seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for them.

5. Practical Ways to Raise Daughters in Islam

To ensure daughters become a source of blessing and protection, parents should focus on the following aspects of their upbringing:

a) Instilling Faith and Taqwa (God-Consciousness)

Teach daughters the basics of Islam, including belief in Allah, the importance of prayer, and reliance on Allah in all matters. Encourage them to develop a personal connection with Allah through regular prayer, recitation of the Qur’an, and remembrance (dhikr).

b) Providing a Loving and Supportive Environment

The Prophet ﷺ was known for his gentle and loving treatment of his daughters, especially Fatimah رضي الله عنها. He would stand up to greet her, kiss her forehead, and seat her in his place. This loving environment fosters confidence and emotional well-being.

c) Emphasizing the Importance of Education

Islam places great emphasis on seeking knowledge. Teach daughters both religious and worldly knowledge, empowering them to become well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society.

“Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.”
[Narrated by Ibn Majah]

d) Teaching Good Character (Akhlaq)

Good character is a cornerstone of Islamic upbringing. Teach daughters to embody traits such as honesty, kindness, patience, and humility. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“The most beloved of you to me are those who have the best character.”
[Narrated by Al-Bukhari]

6. Daughters as a Source of Ongoing Reward

Investing time, effort, and resources in raising daughters is a form of sadaqah jariyah (ongoing charity) that continues to benefit parents even after their death. Daughters who grow up to be righteous will continue to pray for their parents and engage in good deeds that add to their parents’ rewards in the Hereafter.

Conclusion: A Source of Blessing, Not a Burden

In Islam, daughters are a source of joy, mercy, and protection. The love and care shown by ʿAbd Allāh ibn Masʿūd رضي الله عنه and other companions reflect the profound value placed on daughters in Islam. By raising daughters with love, faith, and good character, parents can ensure that they become a means of protection from the Hellfire and a source of reward in the Hereafter.

May Allah grant us the ability to raise our daughters and sons in righteousness, make them a source of mercy for us, and unite us with them in Jannah. Ameen.