What impact occurs when traditions prioritise wealth over character in front of children? 

Parenting Perspective 

When children grow up witnessing cultural traditions that prioritise wealth over character, they can absorb the message that money is the true measure of respect. This can undermine the essential values of honesty, kindness, and responsibility that should be at the heart of their upbringing. Over time, a child may lose sight of what it truly means to be a good person. 

The Distortion of Core Values 

Traditions that celebrate wealth can confuse a child about what is important in life. Instead of learning to value internal qualities, they are taught to admire external displays, which can lead to a shallow understanding of the world. 

The Emotional Consequences for Children 

These traditions can have a negative emotional impact on all children. Those from modest households may internalise feelings of inadequacy, while those from wealthier families might develop arrogance. In both cases, the child’s self-worth becomes dangerously tied to material comparison rather than to inner strength. 

The Strain on Social Interactions 

Children who grow up with these values may struggle in their friendships, focusing on what their peers own rather than on the quality of their character. This can foster jealousy and competition where there should be compassion and sincerity, leading to relationships that are transactional rather than built on mutual respect. 

Guiding Children Toward True Measures of Worth 

Parents can counteract these harmful traditions with a clear and consistent message at home. 

• Talk openly about the difference between cultural practices and Islamic values. 

• Highlight real-life examples of people who are respected for their honesty and humility, not for their wealth. 

• Build family practices that celebrate effort, service, and kindness instead of material success. 

• Show confidence in a simple lifestyle, so children learn that dignity is not tied to possessions. 

By taking these steps, parents can equip their children to see beyond shallow cultural measures and to build an identity that is rooted in sincerity and good character. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that a person’s character is the true measure of their worth, and that cultural traditions must never be allowed to overshadow this fundamental principle. When society elevates wealth above piety, it is the duty of parents to gently guide their children back to the values that are honoured by Allah. 

A Quranic Reminder on Real Nobility 

The Quran makes it clear that in the sight of Allah, nobility is defined by a person’s righteousness and piety, not by their wealth. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 13: 

‘…Indeed, the best of you in the judgement of Allah (Almighty) is the one who is most virtuous…’ 

This verse defines nobility in terms of righteousness, making it clear that character outweighs wealth in the eyes of Allah. 

The Prophetic Teaching on True Wealth 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that true worth is measured by the state of one’s heart and the sincerity of one’s deeds, not by any material display. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2564, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Indeed, Allah does not look at your appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.’ 

This hadith reminds us that we must teach our children that their true worth is measured by their sincerity, not by material things. 

When parents explain and embody these teachings, children learn to value themselves and others for their faith and integrity rather than for their wealth. This grounding helps them to resist harmful traditions, to embrace simplicity with pride, and to approach life with the confidence that their worth lies in the qualities that Allah honours.