An Example of Noble Character

WOMEN OF PARADISE with them in accordance with what is fair and kind; if you dislike them, it may be that you dislike something which God might make a source of abundant good.” (Quran, 4:19) Although this verse is directed at men, the spirit of the guidance applies equally to women. In household matters, personal likes and dislikes must take a back seat to mutual harmony and shared purpose. What may seem unpleasant at times could, in the larger context, hold great benefit. This attitude allows one to handle challenges with grace and maintain peace in the home. The third stage begins when a woman becomes a mother. A new set of responsibilities unfolds—the task of raising the next generation. Every home is a small unit of the larger human society. A healthy society depends on the strength of its families. Therefore, a woman must dedicate herself to strengthening her home, which in turn contributes to the well-being of society. A mother must provide her children with the best possible education and instill in them high moral values. She must prepare them to become honest, responsible members of society—individuals who fulfill the rights of others and seek the approval of God. An Arabic proverb says: “Teaching in childhood is like carving on stone.” (Fath al-Bari by Ibn Hajar, Vol. 8, p. 702) This shaping of a child’s character is the work of the mother. If a woman fully commits to this task, the child she raises becomes a valuable asset to humanity—not a burden.