How can I link my child’s choices to pleasing Allah Almighty? 

Parenting Perspective 

An Opportunity to Please Allah 

Linking your child’s choices to pleasing Allah Almighty is an essential way to help them develop a strong moral compass rooted in their faith. You can start by explaining that every action, no matter how small, is an opportunity either to please or displease Allah. You might say, ‘Every choice you make can either bring you closer to Allah or take you further away. We can choose to do good deeds that please Allah by being kind, honest, and respectful to others.’ 

Reflect on Islamic Values 

Teach your child that their actions should reflect the values of Islam, kindness, honesty, patience, and self-control. For example, when your child is faced with a decision, encourage them to think about whether the action aligns with Islamic values. You could say, ‘Before you speak or act, think about whether it will make Allah happy or if it goes against His guidance.’ 

Teach the Importance of Intention (Niyyah) 

Introduce the concept of intention (niyyah) in your child’s actions. You can explain that the intention behind their actions is just as important as the action itself. For instance, ‘When you do your chores or help others, remember that if you do it to please Allah, it becomes an act of worship.’ This helps your child to understand that even mundane tasks can be connected to seeking Allah’s pleasure. Praise your child when they make choices that reflect their faith values, reinforcing the idea that their actions are an opportunity to grow closer to Allah. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, every action, no matter how small, is an opportunity to earn Allah’s pleasure. Allah Almighty teaches us in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 2: 

‘This is a Book (Quran) in which there cannot be any doubt; guidance for those who seek piety.’ 

This verse reminds us that everything in our lives should be guided by the teachings of Islam, as this is what leads to earning Allah’s pleasure. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the importance of the intention behind our actions. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Actions are judged by intentions, and each person will be rewarded according to what they intended.’ 

This Hadith teaches us that our intentions are what truly matter in the sight of Allah, and that good intentions lead to good outcomes. By teaching your child to link their choices to pleasing Allah, you are guiding them to live their lives with sincere intentions, aligning every action with their faith and their desire to seek Allah’s approval.