Q & A

...because you asked...

Questions are answered by Shaykh Abdool Rahman Khan

In one of the classes you taught, you said that we should teach our children Aqeedah before teaching them how to read and memorize the Qur’an, did you mean love and knowledge of Allah? How can we teach our kids Aqeedah in an easier way?

When children are of the age of understanding, which could be from as early as two years old, instill in them the names of Allah SWT. As he/she gets older mention how Allah SWT is The Creator of everything, the sky, the stars, the trees and in a simple way, make them realize that only Allah SWT has power to do whatever He wishes and because of that He is not created. He has the ultimate power. At the same time, they can begin to learn Qur’an recitation simultaneously so when they see the Names and Attributes of Allah SWT, bring it to their attention and reinforce those concepts.

“I Love Islam” by Noor Art series is a very good starting point. I have been teaching my grandson this book since he was five. Now he is six and Alhamdulillah, he has a very clear understanding about Allah SWT. If a child asks questions too difficult to explain, tell them Insha’Allah they will learn that as they get older.

A child’s mind at an early age is like a sponge that absorbs. They can easily handle both their academic studies as well as their Islamic Studies. If we wait till “they grow up” then it might be too late as is the case of many children.

Another early way of teaching them Aqeedah is to get some good Islamic cartoon. Concepts such as the Oneness of Allah SWT, that Allah SWT can hear them and see them, and that He rewards for good deeds with Jannah are easily learnt.

A very effective way for our children to learn their Deen is enrolling them in Islamic Schools. At least they will have an environment where they can pray, observe the month of Ramadan, and understand the basics of Deen.

Finally, parents must make it their duty to make Du’a for their children in their presence and in their absence.

If children offer salah and are trying to improve but still at times wear nail color, how should we talk to them?

First of all, the knowledge of Wudhu is essential. One of the conditions of Wudhu being valid is that the water must touch the skin including the nails. If there is any prohibition that prevents water from reaching the parts washed in Wudhu such as grease, paint, nail polish, then the Wudhu is not valid and prayers offered in that case will not be valid. Wudhu is a prerequisite condition for Salah. This should be taught to children way before they learn how to use nail polish.

Rasulallah SAW said: “If you find water, then let it touch your skin, for that is good.” (Narrated by Abu Dawood)

Secondly, young sisters should know that Ibadah has conditions and limitations. So, the right thing to do is to remove this nail polish before making Wudhu.

Thirdly, look for alternatives in nail color that does not prevent water reaching the nails such as henna or porous nail polish.

Fourthly, Iman is to be instilled in the hearts that as Muslims:

Why do we even pray? Who determines how to pray? What should be our Adab in Salah? Is nail color something that enhances our Salah or affects our Salah?

Finally, take it easy on them and don’t be judgmental on them but have patience and let them know what is the correct way of making Wudhu. It may take some time and may Allah SWT help them to understand and practice the Deen correctly.