In this era, islamic studies for kids in order to nurture a new generation with a strong and genuine belief is the foremost step towards the advancement of our nation. Those campaigns of truth distortions, the shifting of standards, and the tarnishing of the true essence of Islam that our Islamic community faces, present a hurdle in raising our children to confront this world filled with deceit.
Also prohibiting in diluting Islamic beliefs and turning them into mere appearances with no foundation or essence. Undermining the fundamental tenets of Islam and casting doubt on its scholars is the goal of those who harbor hatred towards Islam.
As a result of all that has been previously mentioned, teaching Islamic studies for kids with a correct and strong foundation is indeed a top priority for every father and mother. Through this article, we will delve deeper into this important subject.
What is Islamic Studies for kids?
Islamic studies for kids covers a wide range of topics to introduce children to the fundamentals of Islam in an engaging and age-appropriate manner. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the content typically included in Islamic Studies for kids:
Introduction to Islam:
Basic understanding of what Islam is and its importance.
Aqidah :
Aqidah, in Islamic terminology, refers to the creed or belief system within Islam. It encompasses the fundamental tenets of faith that Muslims are required to believe in. These beliefs are considered the foundation of islamic studies for kids and shape the core of a Muslim’s worldview. Some key aspects of Aqidah include:
1-belief in Allah
We believe in the oneness of God (Tawhid), acknowledging that there is no deity except Allah. This belief is central to Islamic monotheism.
2-Belief in Angels:
Muslims believe in the existence of angels who carry out God’s commands and record human deeds.
3-Belief in Divine Books:
This includes belief in the divine books revealed to various prophets, including the Quran, which is considered the final and most authoritative scripture.
4-Belief in Prophets and Messengers:
We believe in all the prophets and messengers sent by Allah, including Adam, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, with Muhammad, Peace Be upon them All, being the final prophet.
5-Belief in the Day of Judgment:
Muslims believe in the resurrection of the dead and the Day of Judgment, where individuals will be held accountable for their deeds and rewarded or punished accordingly.
6-Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar):
This is the belief in Allah’s preordainment of all things, both good and bad.
The five pillars of islam
The Five Pillars are the Most Important Topic in Teaching Worship in islamic studies for kids, and they are:
1-Shahada (tawheed shehadah)
The testimony that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger. This is the foundational statement of Islamic faith.
2-Salat (Prayer):
Performing the ritual prayers five times a day facing the Kaaba in Mecca(qiblah). These prayers are observed at specific times and are a direct link between the worshipper and Allah.
3-Zakat (mandatory Charity):
Giving alms or charitable donations, typically 2.5% of one’s savings and investments, to help the less fortunate and support social welfare.
4-Sawm Ramadan(mandatory Fasting): Observing fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset as an act of self-purification and spiritual reflection.
5-Hajj (Pilgrimage):
Making a pilgrimage to the sacred house of Mecca at least once in a lifetime if physically and financially able. It involves a series of rituals and commemorates the actions of the Prophet Ibrahim and his family.
Seerah
Teaching the Seerah (biography of Prophet Muhammad) in islamic studies for kids is a meaningful way to help them learn about the life and character of the Prophet in a child-friendly manner. Here’s an overview of what Seerah for kids might include:
1-Early Life of the Prophet:
Introduce the Prophet’s birth, family, and childhood in a simple and engaging way.
2-Prophethood:
Explain the moment of revelation and the events that followed, emphasizing the importance of the message he received.
3-Stories and Morals:
Share stories from the Prophet’s life that highlight moral and ethical lessons, such as kindness, honesty, and compassion.
4-Major Events:
Discuss key events in the Prophet’s life, like the migration to Medina(hijrah), battles(ghazwat), and important treaties.
Highlight significant events, such as the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and the Conquest of Mecca.
Explain the Farewell Pilgrimage and the Prophet’s final sermon.
5-Companions of the Prophet:
Introduce some of the Prophet’s close companions, like Abu Bakr, Omar, and Ali, and their contributions.
6-Celebrations and Traditions:
Explain how Islamic holidays like Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha are connected to events from the Seerah.
What is the aim of Islamic Studies?
Producing a generation based on sound religious principles that knows its duties towards its society and nation, as well as their rights upon it without excess or negligence, is indeed a fundamental goal of islamic studies for kids.
here are the key objectives of teaching islamic studies for kids in bullet points:
1-Guidance toward Faith and Worship:
Foster belief in Allah and introduce children to Islamic rituals like prayer and fasting.
teaching the concept of monotheism (Tawheed) and the avoidance of shirk (associating partners with Allah) to children in a way that’s suitable for their understanding.
2-Development of Islamic Ethics and Values:
Teach good morals such as honesty, justice, and compassion, and promote a correct understanding of Islamic values.
Instructing children to be steadfast in upholding truth, rejecting injustice, and safeguarding their homeland, dignity, and possessions. Stressing the importance of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the liberation of the entire cause, and emphasizing that those who defend it are among the noblest and best of the nation.
3-Understanding Islamic History and Culture:
Familiarize children with the history of Islam and the cultural heritage of the Muslim community.
We mention the heroic deeds of great figures in Islam, with the foremost being our Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. We teach them that what is often portrayed as heroes in external cartoons and shows is not true heroism. In Islam, we have surpassed the heroism of these individuals.
4-Promotion of Unity and Solidarity:
Instill the concept of the Islamic Ummah (community) and encourage cooperation among its members.
We teach them that Muslims are like one body, where if one part aches, the rest of the body feels its pain. Muslims must always be there to support each other with all the strength they possess.
5-Understanding of Law and Justice:
Guide children on concepts of justice and law in Islam and how they can be applied.
We teach them that the principles of human rights in Islam, celebrated by nations today, have been our constitution since the time of the Prophet, peace be upon him. We also inform them that the claims of others regarding women’s rights are baseless slander, as Islam has protected and granted women significant rights and a rightful place in life and participation.
Summary:
Islamic studies for kids typically involves teaching them about the basics of Islam, including its beliefs, practices, and history, in an age-appropriate and engaging manner. This education aims to instill Islamic values, morals, and ethics, while also promoting an understanding of the significance of concepts like monotheism, the Prophet Muhammad’s life, and key Islamic principles. It may also focus on fostering a sense of community, unity, and social responsibility among young Muslims.
