Parenting Perspective 

Using Quranic stories to teach children about redemption is a powerful tool for fostering empathy, humility, and hope without instilling feelings of shame. When we turn to the stories of past Prophets in the noble Quran, we see how Allah Almighty offers forgiveness to those who sincerely repent, regardless of their past mistakes. These stories teach children that making mistakes is a part of life, but it is the response to those mistakes that truly matters. 

One of the key aspects of using Quranic stories is to focus on the mercy and forgiveness of Allah Almighty, rather than on the mistakes of individuals. These stories show how even those who have strayed far can find redemption through sincere repentance. 

Focus on the Process of Redemption 

When telling Quranic stories, highlight the stages of redemption: recognising one’s faults, turning to Allah for forgiveness, and striving to improve. 

• The story of Prophet Yunus (Jonah): This story shows how he turned to Allah in sincere repentance after his mistake. After being swallowed by the whale, he acknowledged his mistake and prayed earnestly for forgiveness. 

• The story of Prophet Adam and Hawwa (Eve): This story can be used to demonstrate that even when we make mistakes, redemption is possible. After eating from the forbidden tree, Adam and Eve sincerely repented, and Allah forgave them. 

Teach Compassion and Avoid Shame 

In teaching these stories, it is important to avoid focusing on the shame or guilt of the characters. Instead, emphasise the emotional and spiritual growth that comes from recognising one’s mistakes. 

• What to say: You can tell your children, ‘Even the Prophets were human, and they made mistakes. But what is important is how they asked for forgiveness and worked to do better.’ 

• Model this behaviour: If you make a mistake, demonstrate to your children how to seek forgiveness both from Allah and from those you may have wronged. 

Practical Steps for Using Quranic Stories 

Here are some practical steps for using Quranic stories: 

• Storytelling with Emphasis on Redemption: Share stories like that of Prophet Musa (Moses), who, after fleeing Egypt, was given the opportunity to return and lead his people to freedom through sincere repentance. 

• Encourage Reflection: After sharing a Quranic story, encourage your children to reflect on how the character was able to turn their life around. Ask questions like, ‘What did they do when they made a mistake?’ 

• Highlight Allah’s Mercy: Consistently remind your children that Allah Almighty is the Most Merciful and the Most Forgiving. 

By using Quranic stories in this way, you teach your children that redemption is not about punishment or shame, but about growth, mercy, and the possibility of a fresh start. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Boundless Mercy of Allah 

The noble Quran serves as a reminder that no matter how far someone has gone astray, Allah’s mercy is always available to those who seek it with sincerity. This teaches us that redemption is possible for everyone and offers hope to those who feel they have strayed too far. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Zumar (39), Verse 53: 

‘ Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ): “O my servants, those of you who have transgressed against yourselves (by committing sin); do not lose hope in the mercy of Allah (Almighty); indeed, Allah (Almighty) shall forgive the entirety of your sins; indeed, He is the Most Forgiving and the Most Merciful”.‘ 

By teaching your children this verse, you help them understand that they can always turn back to Allah, no matter the mistake. 

The Joy of Repentance 

The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ illustrate the immense joy and pleasure Allah feels when His servant turns to Him in repentance. It shows that no matter how great the error, Allah’s acceptance of sincere repentance is greater. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2747, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Allah is more pleased with the repentance of His servant than a man who has lost his camel in a barren desert and then finds it.’ 

This teaches children that seeking Allah’s forgiveness is not a cause for shame but a source of Allah’s immense pleasure and mercy. The Quranic verses and Hadith about redemption remind us that the path to forgiveness is always open.