In earlier lessons, we talked about marriage, its purpose, and how to choose the right spouse. Now, let’s focus on the importance of family in Islam.
The Prophet Muḥammad (s) is reported to have said:
‘Seek in wanting and having a child, for it is the source of comfort and the happiness of the heart.’
Here are some recommended acts a person should observe before conception and during pregnancy.
Before Conception
- Purify Intentions:
Both parents should sincerely ask Allah to bless them with righteous offspring.
Recite the dua of Prophet Zakariyya (as):
‘My Lord, grant me from Yourself a good offspring. Indeed, You are the Hearer of supplication.’ (Qurān 3:38).
- State of Ritual Purity:
It is recommended (mustaḥabb) for the couple to perform wuḍūʾ or ghusl, pray two rakʿahs, and sincerely seek Allah’s blessings for a future child.
- Charity:
Giving charity (ṣadaqah) before conception invites blessings and removes misfortunes (al-Kāfī, vol. 5).
- Avoid Forbidden Food and Earnings:
Consuming ḥarām food or earning ḥarām income corrupts the soul and can negatively affect the child’s spiritual state. Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (as) is reported to have said:
‘Halāl food produces a pure offspring, while ḥarām food corrupts the soul and body.’
- Recommended Foods Before Conception:
According to narrations Pomegranate Increases fertility and promotes healthy, beautiful children. And it is reported that Quince improves seed purity and ensures beautiful and decent children.
Timing of Conception
Prohibited Times:
- During a woman’s menstruation.
- During fasting hours in Ramaḍān.
Disliked (Makrūh) Times:
- From the beginning of Fajr to sunrise.
- Between sunset and when the red sky fades.
- On the nights of lunar or solar eclipses.
- On the first of any lunar month (except Ramaḍān, where it is recommended).
- During the middle and end of the lunar month.
- The night of Ashūrā.
During Pregnancy
Eat Recommended Foods such as:
- Dates:
Imām ʿAlī (peace be upon him) said:
‘No food is better for a pregnant woman than fresh dates.’
- Olive Oil:
Brightens complexion and cleanses the liver of the mother and baby.
- Figs, Pomegranates, and Quince:
Promote health and strength.
- Nutritious Foods:
Almonds, rice, vegetables, fish, nuts, and dairy milk are also beneficial.
Although these foods are recommended one should avoid those unsuitable for specific medical conditions like diabetes.
As for Recommended Acts:
- Qurān Recitation:
Surah Maryam, Surah Yā-Sīn, and Surah Yūsuf are particularly beneficial.
- Dhikr and Dua:
Recite Allah’s names and supplications like Dua Kumayl regularly.
- Maintain Ritual Purity:
Strive to remain in wudu.
- Positive Environment:
Avoid sinful acts, negative people, and bad manners.
- Engage with the Unborn Child:
Name the baby early with a good name and speak to them to encourage closeness.
- Give Charity:
Daily ṣadaqah protects the child.
- Emotional Well-being:
Stay calm, relaxed, and positive. Avoid anger and stress.
Sources:
Al Kafi – Vol 5
From Marriage to Parenthood -Shaheen Merali
Children in the Quran and Sunnah – Ayatollah Mohammad Reyshahri
The Rights of a Child – Shaykh Muhammad Jawad Tabasi