With the heartbreaking events going on in Palestine, it’s important to help our children gain a better understanding of what’s happening around them. How do we begin talking about these heavy topics? How can we reassure our children that they should not fear or grieve? This article touches upon all this and more.
Create an open dialogue
Start the conversation by asking open-ended questions, such as “Have you heard about what’s happening in Palestine?” or “What are your thoughts about the situation there?” This allows your child to express their feelings and share their understanding of the topic. Next, teach them the following:
Allah is always with the oppressed
Read to your child about verses in the Quran which emphasise Allah’s presence with the oppressed and His awareness of their circumstances. These verses provide reassurance and comfort to us and those facing oppression, reminding them that they are never alone and that Allah’s help and justice will eventually prevail.
Here are a few Quranic references to help you get started:
Surah An-Nisa (4:45): “Indeed, Allah is not unjust to the smallest degree. And if there is a good deed, then He multiplies it and gives from Himself a great reward.”
This verse assures us that Allah is always just and fair in His dealings. Even if the oppressed may feel that injustice prevails, they can trust that Allah’s ultimate justice will prevail, and He will reward their patience and perseverance.
Surah Az-Zumar (39:10):
“Say, ‘O My servants who have believed, fear your Lord. For those who do good in this world is good, and the earth of Allah is spacious. Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account.”
This verse reminds us that the earth belongs to Allah, and its vastness signifies His ability to provide relief and justice to His servants. Those who patiently endure difficulties in this world will receive their reward from Allah without any limit or measure.
Surah Al-Hajj (22:60):
“That [is so]. And whoever responds [to injustice] with the equivalent of that with which he was harmed and then is tyrannized – Allah will surely aid him. Indeed, Allah is Pardoning and Forgiving.”
This verse assures us that Allah will come to the aid of those who respond to injustice with patience and restraint. Allah is forgiving and merciful, and He will support those who seek justice while maintaining their integrity.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286):
“Allah does not charge a soul except [with that within] its capacity. It will have [the consequence of] what [good] it has gained, and it will bear [the consequence of] what [evil] it has earned.”
This verse reminds us that Allah does not burden anyone beyond their capacity. Even in times of oppression, Allah knows the limits and strengths of individuals. He will hold people accountable for their actions, and the oppressed can find solace in knowing that they will be rewarded for their patience and righteousness.
These Quranic references highlight the belief that Allah is always aware of the plight of the oppressed and that His help and justice will ultimately prevail. They provide comfort, strength, and hope to those facing difficulties, reminding them to trust in Allah’s wisdom and timing.
Introduce the concept of death and akhirah:
While it is not easy to talk about heavy topics such as death and violence to kids, teach them that death is the first step towards jannah for Muslims.
Let your child know that as Muslims,
- We will be rewarded with paradise if we follow Allah’s commandments.
- We must strive to enter paradise – a place where we’ll get everything our hearts desire.
- We must live our lives in a manner that pleases Allah and not get swayed by worldly temptations.
- A believer should not fear death, rather he should be in a constant state of pleasing Allah and focus on collecting as many good deeds as he can.
Teach your child that those who die in the way of Allah are not dead.
In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:154), Allah says:
“And do not say of those who are killed in the way of Allah that they are dead; they are alive, but you perceive [it] not.”
Martyrs who sacrifice their lives in the path of Allah are not truly dead, but rather alive in the presence of Allah, enjoying the rewards of Paradise. This verse should serve as a reminder to believers not to view them as deceased but to recognize their elevated status and eternal life in Jannah.
Dua is the most important and powerful weapon we have
Encourage your child to make dua for the oppressed.
Dua (supplication) is our most powerful tool for connecting with Allah and seeking His help and mercy.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Dua is the essence of worship.” (Tirmidhi)
Dua is not only a means of seeking personal needs but also a channel to express empathy and compassion for the oppressed. Encourage your child to make dua for the oppressed. This is one of the most beautiful ways to instil empathy and sensitivity towards the difficulties faced by others.
Here are some suggestions on how to incorporate dua into their lives:
- Teach them the importance of dua:
Explain to your children that dua is a direct connection to Allah, through which they can ask for blessings, forgiveness, and support for themselves and others.
- Create a dua routine:
Help your children develop a habit of making dua by creating a list of duas to be said regularly. Include supplications for the oppressed, seeking relief, and expressing gratitude. Encourage them to recite these duas with sincerity and desperation.
- Lead by example:
Show your children the importance of dua by making it a part of your daily routine. Let them witness you raising your hands, calling out to Allah, and expressing your heartfelt needs and concerns.
- Discuss the power of dua:
Share stories from the Quran and sunnah where the power of dua brought about positive outcomes or comforted those in distress. Help them understand that Allah listens to every sincere supplication.
- Emphasize sincerity and trust in Allah:
Teach your children that Allah is the All-Hearing, All-Knowing, and All-Merciful. Encourage them to have complete trust in His ability to answer their prayers and the prayers of those who are oppressed.
Listen Attentively
Give your child space to share their thoughts and perspectives. Listen actively and validate their emotions. Encourage them to ask questions and express any confusion they may have. Remember, these conversations may be ongoing as your child grows and develops a deeper understanding. Be patient, supportive, and always encourage their curiosity and desire to learn more.
May Allah ease the pain and suffering of our Muslim brothers and sisters all around the world, and give us victory over the oppressors, Ameen.