Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training – Recently, the topic of being “childfree” has gained attention after an influencer publicly shared their decision not to have children. How is this viewed childfree from an Islamic perspective? Here’s an explanation about childfree.
1. Having children is not our choice, but Allah’s
In reality, whether we are blessed with children or not is not our choice, but a decree from Allah. Allah is the one who gives or does not give. Allah says in the Quran:
“He creates what He wills. He gives daughters to whom He wills, and He gives sons to whom He wills, or He makes them of both sons and daughters, and He renders whom He wills barren. Indeed, He is Knowing and Competent.” (QS. Ash-Shura: 49-50)
2. Having children is one of the purposes of marriage
Allah has prescribed marriage not just for fulfilling biological needs but also for continuing the lineage.
Allah says regarding the permissibility of intimate relations during the nights of Ramadan:
فَالْآَنَ بَاشِرُوهُنَّ وَابْتَغُوا مَا كَتَبَ اللَّهُ لَكُمْ
“So now, have relations with them and seek that which Allah has decreed for you.” (QS. Al-Baqarah: 187).
Some companions, such as Abu Hurairah, Ibn Abbas, and Anas, interpreted “that which Allah has decreed for you” as referring to offspring (as mentioned by Ibn Kathir in his Tafsir). From this, we can conclude that one of the objectives of intimate relations is to have children.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Marry those who are loving and fertile, for I will boast of your great numbers before the other nations.” (HR. Abu Dawud, An-Nasa’i with a hasan chain)
3. Missing out on ongoing rewards after death
When death befalls us and we can no longer perform good deeds, we would surely wish for rewards that continue to benefit us in the grave. One way is through the prayers of a righteous child.
From Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“When a person dies, their deeds are cut off except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them.” (HR. Muslim)
Some might argue, “There are still ongoing charity and beneficial knowledge, or other deeds that also continue after death.” While this is true, as servants of Allah, we should seize every opportunity for reward. If we ask, “Are we sure our ongoing charity will continue? Are we certain our knowledge is beneficial?” we should use every available opportunity, whether it’s through charity, a righteous child, or beneficial knowledge.
4. Missing out on the intercession of a deceased child
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“No Muslim who loses three children before they reach the age of accountability will be denied Paradise by Allah, due to His mercy towards them.” (HR. Bukhari, no. 1381)
5. Missing out on being elevated in rank in Paradise
Entering Paradise is a great desire for us. Even being at the lowest rank in Paradise is a blessing. However, the Prophet taught us to aspire for the highest levels in Paradise.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Indeed, in Paradise there are one hundred levels which Allah has prepared for those who strive in His cause. The distance between each level is like the distance between the heavens and the earth. So, when you ask Allah, ask for Al-Firdaus, for it is the best and highest part of Paradise. Above it is the Throne of the Most Merciful, and from it flow the rivers of Paradise.” (HR. Bukhari)
A person might be in a lower rank but could be elevated because of their child.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also said:
“A man is raised in status in Paradise and asks, ‘How did I get here?’ It is said, ‘By your child’s seeking forgiveness for you.’” (HR. Ibn Majah)
Given the numerous virtues of having children in our religion, do we still not desire their presence?
Wallahu a’lam.
Source:
- https://pesantrenalirsyad.org/childfree-dalam-pandangan-islam/
- https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/little-girl-playing-with-toy-plane-field_27334488.htm#fromView=search&page=1&position=2&uuid=76c39d28-4398-428f-8f0b-d8a2cbb7a078
