A Model Father

Muslims will once again celebrate Eid al-Adha, commonly known as the Festival of Sacrifice. The occasion is closely tied to the historical journey of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), rich with exemplary values. Beyond being a model husband, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) is also a paragon of fatherhood. Allah SWT states: “Indeed, there is an excellent example for you in Ibrahim and those with him.” (Quran 60:4).

Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was the head of his household, nurturing his family according to Allah’s guidance and the teachings of His Messenger. As a husband, he treated both his wives fairly. His wives, Sarah and Hajar, were obedient to him, a devotion stemming from his own submission to Allah.

This teaches men that to earn their wives’ obedience, they must uphold their own devotion to Allah SWT, be responsible, possess noble character, love their families, and act in accordance with religious teachings.

It is difficult to expect a pious and obedient wife when the husband himself has poor morals. A husband’s wish for his wife to improve is futile if he refuses to change his own bad habits.

As a father, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) demonstrated compassionate, democratic, and exemplary parenting. Consider his dialogue with his son when commanded by Allah to sacrifice him:

“When [Ishmael] reached the age to work alongside him, [Ibrahim] said, ‘My son, I have seen in a dream that I must sacrifice you. What do you think?’ He replied, ‘Father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, among the steadfast.’ (Quran 37:102).”

In this exchange, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) shows deep affection and democratic spirit. The term “ya bunayya” (my son) is a term of endearment. Ibrahim sought his son’s opinion before carrying out the divine command.

This democratic approach reflects the educational values Ibrahim (AS) instilled in Ishmael, nurtured through prayer, effort, and his own exemplary conduct.

“My Lord, grant me [a child] among the righteous.”