The Blessings of Daughters in Islam: Daughters, Marriage, and Motherhood
Islam places immense importance on family and social relationships, viewing them as foundational pillars of society. Among the most profound teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) are those that emphasize the special blessings tied to raising daughters, the sanctity of marriage, and the unparalleled respect owed to mothers. Each of these relationships is not only a source of emotional and spiritual fulfillment but also a means of attaining eternal rewards in the Hereafter. Through various Hadiths, the Prophet (ﷺ) illustrated how caring for one’s daughters, completing half of one’s faith through marriage, and honoring one’s mother can lead a person toward success in both this world and the next. These teachings underline the deep values of compassion, responsibility, and respect within Islamic family life.
The Blessings of Raising Daughters
Raising daughters in Islam is considered a great virtue and a means of earning Jannah (Paradise). In a society where daughters were once viewed as burdens, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) completely reversed this notion. He emphasized that daughters are not just equal to sons but, in fact, caring for them can open the doors of Paradise for a parent. One powerful Hadith states:
Jabir ibn Abdullah reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Whoever has three daughters and he cares for them, he is merciful to them, and he clothes them, then Paradise is certainly required for him.” It was said, “O Messenger of Allah, what if he has only two?” The Prophet said, “Even two.” Some people thought that if they had said to him one, the Prophet would have said even one.
Source: Musnad Aḥmad 14247
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever has three daughters and is patient with them, provides for them, clothes them, and shows them compassion, they will be a shield for him against the Fire on the Day of Resurrection.”
This Hadith, found in Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1916 and Sunan Ibn Majah 3669, shows the immense spiritual rewards of raising daughters. By providing for their daughters, parents can earn Allah’s favor and protection from Hellfire. This Hadith, in particular, reflects the transformative power of love, care, and patience in the family, highlighting how small acts of kindness—such as providing food, clothing, and affection—can lead a parent toward eternal reward.
The idea that daughters are a shield from Hellfire shows the compassionate nature of Islam. Instead of viewing daughters as burdens, they are seen as an opportunity to earn Allah’s favor. By feeding, clothing, and raising daughters with patience, Muslims can secure their place in Paradise. It’s a reminder that acts of kindness and care within the family are among the most beloved deeds to Allah.
Completing Half of Faith Through Marriage
Marriage in Islam is considered more than just a social contract; it is a spiritual act that brings a person closer to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) stated that marriage completes half of one’s faith. He said:
“When a servant marries, he has completed half of his faith, so let him fear Allah regarding the remaining half.”
This Hadith, found in Al-Bayhaqi’s Shu’ab al-Iman 5100, highlights the significance of marriage in a Muslim’s life. The union of husband and wife is meant to be a partnership where both parties help each other grow in faith, morality, and personal development. By marrying, individuals shield themselves from temptations and sins, allowing them to focus more on fulfilling their religious obligations.
The Hadith emphasizes that marriage is not just about companionship but also about spiritual growth. It teaches Muslims to view marriage as a means of protection, not only in this world but also in the next. This is why Islam places so much importance on maintaining a healthy, respectful, and loving marital relationship, as it impacts both one’s faith and their standing before Allah.
Paradise Lies Beneath the Feet of Mothers
One of the most frequently quoted Hadiths concerning family relationships is the one that emphasizes the status of mothers. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was once asked, “Who is most deserving of my good companionship?” The Prophet (ﷺ) replied three times, “Your mother,” before mentioning “your father” on the fourth time. This prioritization speaks volumes about the importance of mothers in Islam.
In another Hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Paradise lies under the feet of your mother.”
This Hadith, reported in Sunan an-Nasa’i 3104 and other collections, highlights the high status of mothers in Islam. It shows that serving, respecting, and honoring one’s mother is one of the most direct paths to Paradise. The expression “beneath the feet of your mother” symbolizes the idea that one’s success in the Hereafter depends heavily on how well they treat their mother. The more one serves their mother, the closer they get to Jannah.
This Hadith encourages Muslims to always treat their mothers with the utmost care, patience, and love. It also serves as a reminder that no matter how much a person does for their mother, they can never truly repay her for all the sacrifices she has made. In Islam, the mother’s role is not just to be honored but also to be cherished and cared for as a means of earning Allah’s pleasure.
Summary
The Hadiths concerning daughters, marriage, and mothers serve as a profound reminder of the blessings and responsibilities tied to family life in Islam. Raising daughters with love and patience can be a shield from Hellfire, marriage helps complete half of one’s faith, and respecting one’s mother is a guaranteed path to Jannah. These teachings reflect the emphasis that Islam places on family as a foundation for both worldly happiness and spiritual success.
Caring for one’s family members is a powerful act of worship. It is through these close relationships that Muslims can live out their faith, show compassion, and earn eternal rewards. The lessons from these Hadiths inspire believers to approach family life with a deep sense of gratitude, responsibility, and devotion, knowing that Allah values these relationships immensely. Ultimately, the pursuit of Jannah begins at home, in the way one cares for their daughters, cherishes their spouse, and honors their mother.
