Instill Taqwa in Your Children: Teach Them Allah Al-Baseer is Watching
Don’t Say to Your Child, ‘I’m Watching You’! Say, ‘Allah Al-Baseer is Watching You’
As parents, we often find ourselves in the position of guiding and correcting our children’s behavior. A common phrase many parents use is, “I’m watching you,” implying that the child’s actions are under scrutiny and that any misdeed will be noted and addressed. While this might deter inappropriate behavior temporarily, it inadvertently teaches children to fear the watchfulness of their parents rather than cultivating a consciousness of Allah’s constant presence.
Instilling Taqwa Over Fear of Parents
Instead of making children fear our watchful eyes, it is far more beneficial to instill in them the concept of Taqwa—consciousness and fear of Allah. By telling them, “Allah Al-Baseer is watching you,” we embed a deeper sense of accountability and morality that transcends human oversight. Allah’s name Al-Baseer, meaning “The All-Seeing,” conveys that nothing escapes His vision, whether in the open or in secrecy. This understanding fosters a genuine and sincere effort to act righteously, not just to avoid parental discipline but to earn Allah’s pleasure and avoid His displeasure.
The Importance of Tawheed in Parenting
This approach is also a fundamental aspect of instilling Tawheed (the oneness of Allah) in our children. Tawheed is the core belief that Allah is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Judge of everything in existence. By emphasizing Allah’s omniscience, we help our children develop a strong, unshakeable faith. They learn that their actions are always known to Allah, nurturing a sincere and consistent effort to live righteously.
Avoiding Secretive Behaviors
Many children, when they fear only their parents, learn to hide their wrongdoings rather than refraining from them altogether. This can lead to a double life—behaving well in front of parents but engaging in undesirable activities in their absence. By teaching children that Allah is always watching, we encourage them to maintain good behavior at all times, fostering honesty and integrity.
Practical Steps for Parents
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Encourage your children when they exhibit good behavior by reminding them that Allah is pleased with their actions. For example, “MashaAllah, you shared your toy. Allah loves when we are kind to others.”
- Consistent Reminders: Regularly remind them of Allah’s presence in a loving and non-threatening manner. Make it part of everyday conversations, such as during family discussions or bedtime stories.
- Teach Through Stories: Use stories from the Quran and Hadith that highlight Allah’s knowledge and watchfulness. These stories can be powerful tools in helping children understand and internalize these concepts.
- Lead by Example: Show through your actions that you also live with the awareness of Allah’s constant presence. Children learn a great deal from observing their parents.
- Enroll in Islamic Courses: Consider enrolling your children in Islamic courses that emphasize Tawheed and the attributes of Allah. The Institute of Quran and Sunnah (IQS) offers various courses that can aid in this spiritual development.
Conclusion
By shifting the focus from parental surveillance to Allah’s ever-watchful presence, we help our children develop Taqwa, a sense of accountability, and a sincere commitment to living according to Islamic principles. This not only aids in their moral and spiritual growth but also reinforces the fundamental tenet of Tawheed in their lives.
For further guidance and support in instilling these values in your children, consider seeking Islamic counselling services provided by the Institute of Quran and Sunnah. Our services are designed to support you in nurturing a righteous and God-conscious family environment.
References
- Learn more about parenting in Islam and related topics on our website.
- Explore courses on Tawheed to deepen your understanding and practice of this essential belief.
Discover more from Institute of Quran and Sunnah
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
