By Daughters in Islam are a gift beyond measure. They are beloved by Allah (SWT) and honored as equals in the journey of life. Their role in our lives is one of immense significance.
The treatment of daughters with kindness and love has been beautifully demonstrated by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH,) who serves as an inspiring example showcasing the affection and care with which daughters should be treated, a testament to the path of love and care they truly deserve.
Long before Islam, the Arabian Peninsula was home to tribal traditions, including the tragic practice of female infanticide. Baby girls were sometimes buried alive, wrongly believed to bring shame to their families. However, the arrival of Islam put an end to this barbaric practice, affirming the safety of daughters’ lives. In Islam, the message is clear that the worth of a daughter is equal to that of a son, emphasizing that all children, regardless of gender, bring blessings, love, and joy to a family’s life.
Long before Islam, the Arabian Peninsula was home to tribal traditions, including the tragic practice of female infanticide.
Fast forward to 2023, and it remains deeply perplexing why, in certain cultures and societies, the worth of a girl is tarnished, in direct contrast to the teachings of the Quran. There are instances where the anticipation of welcoming a daughter into a family is not met with joy and celebration like with the news of a boy, but Instead, it is met with expressions of disappointment, sometimes from both close and extended family members.
Comments such as “Oh, another girl,” or “If only we had a grandson,” or even more hurtful remarks like, “You’re not a good person; that’s why God gives you girls,” tend to cast a shadow over what should be a moment of happiness. Sadly, even displaying happiness upon hearing the news of a girl is regarded as a transgression.
These attitudes only serve to perpetuate harmful gender biases, where boys are celebrated as a source of pride while girls are unjustly viewed as a source of concern. Culture and society can shape our beliefs, but when they overshadow Islamic teachings, they can reinforce misconceptions about gender roles.
The words of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) truly shine a light on how precious daughters are. The Hadiths, i.e., the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), serve as a guiding light toward greater equality and respect for daughters. They convey the essence of Islamic teachings and provide insight into the value placed on daughters in Islam. Here are some Hadiths that beautifully illustrate this.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) emphasis on daughters’ value
‘Uqba ibn ‘Amir reported that he heard the Prophet (PBUH) say, “If someone has three daughters and is patient with them and clothes them from his wealth, they will be a shield against the Fire for him.” 1
This Hadith brings attention to an important aspect, daughters are not burdens but blessings. The Hadith encourages parents to be patient with their daughters and to treat them with love and compassion.
Daughters as a source of mercy and blessing
‘Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported:
“A woman came to me with her two daughters. She asked me (for charity) but she found nothing with me except one date fruit, so I gave it to her. She accepted it and then divided it between her two daughters, and she ate nothing out of that. She then got up and went out. When the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) came in, and I narrated to him the story, he said, ‘He who is involved (in the responsibility) of (bringing up) daughters, and he is benevolent towards them, they would become a protection for him against Hell-fire.’” 2
This Hadith illustrates the protective and merciful role that daughters play in the lives of their parents. It reminds us that their presence is a source of mercy and salvation. It also reinforces the idea that daughters bring blessings and protection to their parents, a reflection of the inherent goodness they embody.
Daughters as a means to paradise
Ibn Abbas reported: “The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, ‘Whoever has a daughter and he does not bury her alive, nor humiliate her, nor prefer his sons over her, he will enter Paradise due to her.’” 3
This Hadith leaves no room for doubt, daughters are a path to Paradise. Treating them with love, equality, and respect opens the doors to eternal bliss.
Respecting Daughters as a way to paradise
Anas ibn Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said: “Whoever supports two girls till they grow up, he and I will come on the Day of Resurrection like this,” joining his fingers. 4
This Hadith reaffirms supporting and nurturing daughters until they reach maturity. It is a promise of unity and closeness with Allah for those who do so.
Daughters are not just a part of our families; they are a part of our journey to Paradise. It is our responsibility to heed these valuable lessons, treat our daughters with kindness, and raise them with love and care.
By doing so, we not only honor the legacy of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but also pave our own path towards Allah’s mercy and blessings. In this way, we can truly understand and appreciate the gift of daughters in Islam.