#ShaykhIbrahimZidan #ZADAcademy #Quran #Hadith #IslamicPodcasts #IslamicStudiesResearch The Essence of Tarbiyah Islamiyah: Islamic Nurturing and Development
Introduction
Wa Alaikum Assalam wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh. I’m Zayd Haji from Zad Academy. Our study on Tarbiyah Islamiyah highlights its crucial role in shaping our faith and character according to Islamic principles through Qur'anic and Hadith guidance.
Understanding Tarbiyah Islamiyah
Tarbiyah Islamiyah is the Islamic process of nurturing character, morals, and faith based on Qur'anic and Sunnah teachings, guiding every aspect of life from childhood onward.
In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (SWT) says:
O believers! Enter into Islam wholeheartedly and do not follow Satan’s footsteps. Surely he is your sworn enemy. (Qur'an, 2:208)
This verse underlines the necessity of embracing Islam fully, which includes continuous self-improvement and development through Tarbiyah.
The Role of Knowledge in Tarbiyah
Islam places great importance on the acquisition of knowledge as a means to nurture the soul and intellect. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated:
"Seeking knowledge is a duty upon every Muslim, and he who imparts knowledge to those who do not deserve it, is like one who puts a necklace of jewels, pearls and gold around the neck of swines." (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 224) Grade: Da'if (Darussalam)
Knowledge is the foundation of Tarbiyah, essential for understanding and practicing Islam correctly. Without it, living by Islamic principles is difficult.
In another verse, Allah (SWT) elevates those who seek knowledge:
O believers! When you are told to make room in gatherings, then do so. Allah will make room for you ˹in His grace˺. And if you are told to rise, then do so. Allah will elevate those of you who are faithful, and ˹raise˺ those gifted with knowledge in rank. And Allah is All-Aware of what you do. (Qur'an, 58:11)
This highlights the spiritual and societal elevation that comes with proper Islamic education and nurturing.
The Importance of Fitrah and Tarbiyah
Islam teaches that every human being is born with a natural disposition towards faith, known as fitrah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
No babe is born but upon Fitra. It is his parents who make him a Jew or a Christian or a Polytheist. A person said: Allah's Messenger, what is your opinion if they were to die before that (before reaching the age of adolescence when they can distinguish between right and wrong)? He said: It is Allah alone Who knows what they would be doing. (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2658e)
Tarbiyah is crucial in preserving this innate inclination towards Tawhid (the oneness of Allah) and ensuring that it is nurtured through Islamic teachings. The Qur'an reinforces this concept:
So be steadfast in faith in all uprightness ˹O Prophet˺—the natural Way of Allah which He has instilled in ˹all˺ people. Let there be no change in this creation of Allah. That is the Straight Way, but most people do not know. (Qur'an, 30:30)
Through proper Tarbiyah, Muslims can maintain their fitrah and grow in their faith.
The Comprehensive Nature of Tarbiyah
Tarbiyah Islamiyah goes beyond rituals to include ethics, behavior, and social interactions. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of good character.
Narrated `Abdullah bin `Amr:
The Prophet (ﷺ) never used bad language neither a "Fahish nor a Mutafahish. He used to say "The best amongst you are those who have the best manners and character." Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 3559
This Hadith underscores that Tarbiyah aims to develop a well-rounded individual who embodies Islamic virtues in all areas of life.
Conclusion
Tarbiyah Islamiyah is a lifelong journey of nurturing faith, character, and conduct to please Allah (SWT). By seeking knowledge, maintaining fitrah, and striving for good character, Muslims fulfill their Islamic development. May Allah (SWT) grant us the strength to continuously engage in Tarbiyah. Ameen.
