Parenting Perspective 

Explaining the balance between Allah Almighty’s immense mercy and our responsibility to fix our wrongs is an essential lesson for children. It is important to help them understand that while Allah’s mercy is vast, it is paired with our duty to seek forgiveness and actively make things right. This teaching helps children grow in their relationship with Allah and understand that no mistake is beyond His forgiveness, but that we must also take accountability for our actions. 

The Importance of Allah’s Mercy 

Start by explaining to your children that Allah’s mercy is infinite. You might say, ‘No matter how big or small our mistakes are, Allah’s mercy is always there for us.’ This helps them understand that they are never beyond His forgiveness. 

• Use examples: The stories of Prophets in the noble Quran, like Prophet Adam and Prophet Yunus, demonstrate that no matter how far we may have strayed, Allah’s mercy is always available to those who sincerely seek it. 

The Role of Fixing Our Wrongdoings 

While explaining Allah’s mercy, clarify that it does not mean we are excused from fixing the wrongs we have done. You could say, ‘Even though Allah is merciful, we must also work to fix what we have done wrong. This is part of showing Allah that we are sincere in our repentance.’ 

• Recognising the Mistake: Teach your children that the first step is acknowledging the wrong they have done. 

• Asking for Forgiveness: Explain that we ask Allah for forgiveness through Duas (supplications) with the intention to never repeat the mistake. 

• Making Amends: Reinforce that repentance is not complete without taking practical steps to fix the wrong. 

• Commitment to Change: Encourage your children to make a commitment to change, showing that repentance involves a desire to improve. 

Teach Them Hope, Not Shame 

While it is important for children to understand the need for accountability, it is equally crucial to instil in them a sense of hope. Allah’s mercy is vast, and as long as they turn to Him in sincere repentance, they are always able to begin anew. 

By explaining these concepts, you help your children understand that while Allah’s mercy is limitless, our responsibility to make amends is a natural part of repentance. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Boundless Mercy of Allah 

The noble Quran highlights the immense mercy of Allah and His willingness to forgive all sins, no matter how grave they may seem. It offers hope to those who feel that they have strayed too far, reminding them that Allah’s forgiveness is always within reach. 

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”.‘ 

This assures us that Allah’s mercy is not limited by our mistakes but is an invitation to return to Him. 

The Joy of Repentance 

The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ beautifully illustrate the immense joy that comes with repentance. It shows us that Allah does not only forgive us but rejoices in our return to Him. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6307, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘When a servant of Allah repents, Allah loves him more than a man who has lost his mount in a barren desert and then finds it.’ 

This highlights that the act of repentance, when sincere, brings us closer to Allah and fills us with His mercy. For children, this teaches them that repentance is not just about seeking forgiveness but about returning to Allah with love, sincerity, and hope for a fresh start.