An Example of Noble Character
English book, p. 319
By Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
WOMEN OF PARADISE In these verses, while the direct address is to the Prophet’s wives, the guidance extends to all Muslim women. It outlines how they should live in their homes and what model they should adopt. In ordinary circumstances, a Muslim woman should remain within her household domain. She should not adopt the public displays common among worldly women. Her focus should be on worshiping God, spending her resources in His cause, and promptly following divine guidance in all aspects of life. She should dedicate her time to listening to and understanding the teachings of God and the Prophet of Islam. This way of life purifies the soul—and only purified souls are beloved to God. UPBRINGING OF CHILDREN The Prophet of Islam said: “A father cannot give his child a better gift than good manners.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith No. 1952; Shu’ab al-Iman by al-Bayhaqi, Hadith No. 1554) Although the wording of the hadith specifically mentions the father, by implication it includes both parents. The word adab (good manners) in this context broadly refers to all aspects of education and training—whether religious or worldly. It is natural for both men and women to feel deep affection for their children. This hadith clarifies how that love can best be put to use: by teaching their children the values

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