What Islamic principles can help guide my approach to justice at home? 

Parenting Perspective 

Balance Fairness with Individual Needs 

Justice at home means creating an atmosphere where every family member feels safe, valued, and respected. This begins with parents showing consistency in rules and fairness in discipline. It is important to understand that justice does not mean treating every child identically, but rather ensuring each child’s unique needs are met with care and without favouritism. 

Model Justice in Daily Life 

When resolving disputes, it is crucial to listen to each side of the story before making a decision. Explaining the reasoning behind your choices helps your children to see that fairness is the guiding principle. This culture of justice should also extend to the kindness shown between spouses and the compassion in all daily interactions. When you model fairness in your own behaviour, your children learn that it is a way of life. 

Fairness as a Lived Principle 

This approach teaches children that fairness is not just a family rule, but a core principle of good character that builds trust and harmony. Children raised in such an environment learn to carry those values into their own relationships and communities. 

Spiritual Insight 

Justice is a Central Value of Faith 

Islam makes justice (al-‘adl) a central pillar of faith, commanding fairness in all our dealings. Parents are given a sacred trust (amanah) over their children and must carry out this responsibility with justice, as this is an act that pleases Allah Almighty. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nisa (4), Verse 135: 

‘O you who are believers, remain upright in upholding justice, bearing witness (to such actions) for the sake of Allah (Almighty); even if it goes against your own interest, or that of your parents, or your close relatives…’ 

Be Just with Your Children 

The prophetic tradition gives a clear and direct command for parents to be just in their treatment of their children. This is not only a matter of good parenting but a sacred duty for which we are accountable to Allah. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 1623, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Fear Allah and be just among your children.’ 

A Home Reflecting Islamic Mercy 

When you guide your home by the principles of justice, you create a balance of love and respect that reflects the mercy of Islam. Children raised in such an environment grow up knowing that fairness is part of their deen, and they learn to carry those values into their own relationships and communities.