Strategies for Teaching Discipline to Children Inspired by the Quran and Teachings of Ahlul Bayt (Peace Be Upon Them)  

In the world around us, from the tiniest particles of atoms to the vast galaxies, everything reflects an amazing order. This divine order is not only evident in nature but also clearly seen in our religious teachings. When we look at the star-filled sky and observe the orderly motion of planets, or consider the precise cycles of seasons and the growth of plants, we realize that God has created the universe based on order and calculation.

The Holy Quran says: “Indeed, We have created everything in due measure.” (Surah Al-Qamar, Verse 49, translated by Professor Hossein Ansarian; referenced from the Islamic Encyclopedia). This verse teaches us that order and measurement are fundamental to all creation. So, how can we apply this principle in raising children?

Order and Discipline in the Lifestyle of Ahlul Bayt (PBUH): A Model for Modern Life

The way of life demonstrated by Ahlul Bayt (PBUH) shows that order is not merely an ethical suggestion but a vital necessity for a happy and successful life. By following these radiant teachings and implementing the practical methods provided, we can lead balanced and fulfilling lives in today’s chaotic world. As Imam Ali (PBUH) mentioned, order in affairs combined with piety is the key to success in this world and the hereafter.

۱٫ Imam Ali’s (PBUH) Advice in His Final Moments 

In one of the most profound and impactful wills in Islamic history, Imam Ali (PBUH), during the last moments of his life, called upon the entire Muslim community to adhere to two fundamental principles:  
“I advise you and all my children and family and whoever this message reaches to be God-fearing and to organize your affairs.” (Nahjul Balagha, Letter 47)

This wise advice highlights that:  
– Order is placed on the same level as piety.  
– Order is not a personal recommendation but a universal directive.  
– Order is essential for the survival and vitality of the Islamic society.

۲٫ The Golden Framework of Time Management from Imam Musa Al-Kadhim (PBUH)  

Imam Musa Al-Kadhim (PBUH) said:  
“Divide your time into four parts:  
– Devotion and supplication to God (strengthening the bond with the Creator).  
– Earning a livelihood (efforts to sustain life).  
– Associating with righteous friends (building constructive social relationships).  
– Permissible pleasures (rejuvenating the spirit and body).”  
(Source: Tuhaf al-Uqul, page 409)  

Imam Musa Al-Kadhim (PBUH) elaborated:  
“Strive to allocate your time into four periods: A time for supplication to Allah; a time for earning a livelihood; a time for associating with trusted brothers and friends who point out your faults and are sincere to you in private; and a time for enjoying permissible pleasures.”  
(Source: Tuhaf al-Uqul, page 409, quoted by the Shiite Hadith Information Portal)  

This framework offers a balanced approach to leading a fulfilling life, emphasizing spiritual, professional, social, and personal growth.

Methods for Teaching Discipline to Children Based on Religious Sources  

Educating and teaching proper conduct to children is strongly emphasized in religious texts:  

The Holy Prophet of Islam (Peace and Blessings Be Upon Him and His Family) stated:  
*”Honor your children and teach them good manners so that you may be forgiven.”*  
(Source: Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 104, p. 95, Hadith 44; referenced from the Shiite Hadith Library).  

۱٫ Parents as Practical Role Models of Discipline 

Children learn more from our behavior than from our words. The Holy Quran addresses parents:  
*”O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones…”*  
(Surah Al-Tahrim, Verse 6, translated by Professor Hossein Ansarian; sourced from the Islamic Encyclopedia).  

Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (Peace Be Upon Him) advised:  
*”Be preachers to the people without using your tongues; let them see piety, diligence, prayer, and good deeds in you, for that is itself a form of preaching.”*  
(Source: Al-Kafi, Vol. 2, p. 78, Hadith 14).  

Practical Tips for Parents:  
– Establish regular schedules for family prayers and worship.  
– Maintain discipline in sleeping and waking times.  
– Organize and maintain order in the home environment, including the arrangement of household items.  
– Manage time effectively for daily tasks.  

۲٫ Teaching Discipline Through Play and Encouragement 

Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (PBUH) stated:  
*”Allow your child to play for seven years, discipline them for seven years, and keep them close to yourself for seven years.”*  
(Source: Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih, Vol. 3, p. 492, Hadith 4743; referenced from the Shiite Hadith Library).  

Creative Methods for Teaching Discipline:  
– Organize a “tidy room contest” to encourage orderliness.  
– Use a star chart to reward consistent tasks.  
– Share meaningful stories about the importance of discipline.  
– Offer small rewards for completing tasks on time.

 3. Establishing Clear and Consistent Rules 

The Holy Quran states:  
*”And enjoin prayer upon your family [and people] and be steadfast therein. We do not ask you for provision; We provide for you. And the [best] outcome is for [those of] righteousness.”*  
(Surah Taha, Verse 132, translated by Professor Hossein Ansarian; referenced from the Islamic Encyclopedia).  

Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (Peace Be Upon Him) said:  
*”We command our children to perform prayer when they reach the age of five, and you should command your children to perform prayer when they are seven years old, We command our children, when they reach seven years of age, to fast as much of the day as they can—be it half a day or less or more. And when thirst and hunger overcome them, they may break their fast. In this way, they can gradually accustom themselves to fasting and gain the ability to observe it fully. And you should command your children, at the age of nine, to fast as much as they can during the day, and if thirst overwhelms them, they may break their fast.”*  
(Source: Al-Kafi, Vol. 3, p. 409, Hadith 1; quoted from the Shiite Hadith Library).  

Effective Rules:  
– Set specific times for sleeping and waking up.  
– Allocate fixed times for play, study, and preparatory worship practices (to prepare for fulfilling religious obligations).  
– Assign age-appropriate responsibilities.  
– Allow natural consequences for lack of discipline.  

۴٫ Appropriate punishment methods

In Islamic parenting, punishment is considered a last resort. Non-violent methods such as brief withdrawal of attention, temporary denial of privileges, educational discussions, and explaining the reason for punishment in child-friendly language are preferred. For example, the child can be guided to correct their mistake (like tidying up a messy room) as part of their learning. 

Conclusion: Discipline, A Gift for the Future  

Raising a disciplined child is an investment in their future. As Imam Ali (Peace Be Upon Him) said:  
*”Do the work of each day on that day, for every day has its own task.”*  
(Source: Nahjul Balagha, Letter 53; referenced from the Shiite Hadith Library).  

Inspired by the order prevalent in creation and religious teachings, and by employing principled educational methods, we can nurture disciplined and responsible children. This crucial goal can only be achieved through patience, consistency, and kindness.  

References: 

1. – The Holy Quran, Surah Al-Qamar, Verse 49  
2. – The Holy Quran, Surah Al-Tahrim, Verse 6  
3. – The Holy Quran, Surah Taha, Verse 132  
4. – Nahjul Balagha, Letter 47 (Imam Ali’s Will)  
5. – Nahjul Balagha, Letter 53  
6. – Tuhaf al-Uqul, p. 409 (Saying of Imam Musa Al-Kadhim)  
7. – Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 104, p. 95, Hadith 44  
8. – Al-Kafi, Vol. 2, p. 78, Hadith 14  
9. – Al-Kafi, Vol. 3, p. 409, Hadith 1  
10. – Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih, Vol. 3, p. 492, Hadith 4743  
11. – Islamic Encyclopedia: https://wiki.ahlolbait.com 
12. – Shiite Hadith Information Portal: http://www.hadith.net
13. – Shiite Hadith Library:  https://www.hadithlib.com

Written by: Vahid Nazhd Saei