The Disciplining of Children in the Islamic Culture
Islam means submission to God's will. The five Islamic tenets practiced by Muslims are to recite the creed "There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is his prophet," prayer five times daily, charity to the poor, fasting during the month of Ramadan and, if possible, to make a pilgrimage to Mecca once during a lifetime. Islamic religious courts govern all issues relating to family matters, including child custody and religious education.
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Religious Guidance
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Muslims follow the religious regulations set forth in the Quran, the word of God given to Mohammad by the angel Gabriel. They also follow the "Sunnah," examples from Mohammad's life, and the "Hadith," sayings and advice from the Prophet. The "Hadith" lists the most important deeds to accomplish in daily life to be prayer, honoring one's parent's, and participating in "Jjhad," or efforts toward God's cause. "Jihad" can refer to military campaigns or everyday struggles to live a respectfully religious life.
Obligations of Parents
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Islamic parents are expected to nurture their children with love and affection. They are to see to their physical needs by clothing, feeding and protecting them until they reach adulthood. Parents are to educate their children in whatever manner is possible, and guide them with a gentle hand toward behavior that is acceptable to Islamic traditions. Parents also must make every attempt to provide an inheritance for their children after they pass away.
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Duties of Children
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As it is the parent's duties to keep their children from physical and moral harm, children are required to honor and obey their parents. Children must accept rebukes and limitations set by their parents for their long-term benefit. Because of the years of support parent provide for their children, children must return the favor and provide for their parents in their old age, whether physically or financially. They are to respect their parents and act with kind consideration toward them as they age.
Types of Discipline
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The initial modes of Islamic discipline begin with firm guidance, scolding and the reduction of privileges to deter misbehavior. If misbehavior continues, boys may be struck physically before the age of 10, but not girls. Strikes must avoid the face but are acceptable on the legs of boys and the feet of girls. Hitting must be light and between three and 10 strikes, depending on the rule that has been violated. Fatal damage or hitting enough to break bones is not permitted.
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