How can I use stories of the Prophets to praise character over talent? 

Parenting Perspective 

Shaping Praise Around Timeless Values 

By weaving stories of the Prophets into your daily interactions, you can naturally shift the focus of your praise from temporary skills to timeless qualities. For example, instead of only applauding your child for being quick at maths, you can highlight the patience of Prophet Ayyub (عليه السلام) when they persevere through a difficult task. When they speak the truth, you can connect it to the honesty of Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام). 

This helps your child understand that true success is measured not by raw talent, but by the strength of character that is pleasing to Allah Almighty. 

Making Prophetic Examples Relatable 

Bring these powerful stories into everyday situations. If your child shows kindness to a sibling, you could remark, ‘That kindness reminds me of how the Prophets always cared for others’. If they admit to making a mistake, you can connect it to the humility of Prophet Musa (عليه السلام) when he sought forgiveness. 

When these stories are woven naturally into your praise, children begin to see for themselves that true greatness is defined by moral strength, not by talent alone. Your praise becomes a bridge that connects their small, daily actions to the greatest examples in human history. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Quranic Command to Follow Prophetic Guidance 

The noble Quran is filled with the stories of Prophets whose exemplary character was their true mark of greatness. Their lives are presented not for mere admiration, but as a standard for us to follow. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al An’aam (6), Verse 90: 

‘Those are the people who have been truly guided by Allah (Almighty), so then follow their guidance…’ 

This verse makes it clear that our benchmark for excellence should be the guidance and character of the Prophets. Using their stories as a basis for praise helps children anchor their self-worth in faith and values rather than in temporary abilities. 

Valuing Humility as a Prophetic Trait 

The Prophets taught that the greatest human quality is not talent or achievement, but sincere humility and remembrance of God. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 3593, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most beloved of speech to Allah is when a servant says: SubhanAllah wa bihamdihi (Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him).’ 

This Hadith reminds us that the simplest words of praise for Allah Almighty hold more weight than any worldly accomplishment. By connecting your praise to such prophetic virtues, you encourage your child to value sincerity, truthfulness, and gratitude above all else. When you use the Prophets’ stories as the backdrop for praise, ordinary compliments are transformed into powerful spiritual lessons.