🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #47
My teenager has begun doubting the religion and asking challenging questions. What should parents do?
Do not panic or scold; questions are a chance to understand, and faith that is understood is firmer than faith that is forced.
The Prophet Ibrahim himself asked to see how Allah gives life to the dead, "so that my heart may be at rest" (al-Baqarah 2:260). When the Companions complained of thoughts in their hearts too grave to utter, the Prophet ﷺ said that being troubled by them was the clear sign of faith (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Iman). Allah also states there is no compulsion in religion (al-Baqarah 2:256). Hear the question out, admit it if you do not know the answer, and look for it together with a teacher or reliable material. Ask what triggered the doubt — sometimes it stems from a hurt, not an argument. Keep the bond of love, because a child who is shunned drifts away more easily. See Educating the family.
The Prophet Ibrahim himself asked to see how Allah gives life to the dead, "so that my heart may be at rest" (al-Baqarah 2:260). When the Companions complained of thoughts in their hearts too grave to utter, the Prophet ﷺ said that being troubled by them was the clear sign of faith (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Iman). Allah also states there is no compulsion in religion (al-Baqarah 2:256). Hear the question out, admit it if you do not know the answer, and look for it together with a teacher or reliable material. Ask what triggered the doubt — sometimes it stems from a hurt, not an argument. Keep the bond of love, because a child who is shunned drifts away more easily. See Educating the family.
Sources
Surah al-Baqarah 2:260Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-ImanSurah al-Baqarah 2:256