Many have been blessed to have spent the past few weeks getting closer to their family.The different communal activities have created bonds that are less expressed outside Ramadhan.
But the question is will they last? In Islam, the family is the bedrock of society and it is neccesary to preserve this institution. How else will continuity of the species be ensured?
It is for this reason that severing the ties of kinship is considered a great sin. Family is so important. In addition to providing support, it is also a loving environment wherein the individual can attain self actualization
We have been enjoined to honour our parents( Q17 :23). Children are to be loved and cared for. Wives are to be catered for and loved. Husbands are to be supported and respected.Other members of the extended family are to be valued. This includes in-laws too.
Regular visits among families encourages love to grow in them. If they are distant, however, regular calls and messages will be a good way to keep in touch.
Today the norm is abandoning of old parents in brazen gestures of ingratitude. Children are neglected and thus exposed to various danger many of which hinder their development.Extended family members are not even reckoned with.Inlaws? Don’t even think about it.
The Prophet used to visit Khadija’s relatives and continued even after her death He encouraged us to show mercy to the children and all his children loved him. Fatima would come to her father and he would honour her. She would tell him her troubles and he will say soothing word to make her feel better. Her children Hasan and Husayn will play with him. These are scenarios that should be commonplace in contemporary Muslim households.
Changing the world starts at the family level.
Oumissa Inspire 