The Imancipated Motherhood series is written by one of our NYM iNKSisters who is a mother of one young child, with another on the way. From one Imancipated mother to another….
Parenthood is considered a wonderful partnership, focused on the best interests of children. Each party contributes many things equally to support the upbringing of their offspring. However, single parenthood in the Muslim community is currently on the rise, following suit with the general population.
The sour experience of stigma in any community can be devastating to a divorced or widowed individual. Often, single parents are discriminated against, uninvited to gatherings and even exiled from their extended families. Not only does it have a negative impact on the woman, but it trickles down to her children as well.
Islam extends honour to those that are in this highly vulnerable and fragile position. As Muslims, it’s imperative we show our support to those referred to as ‘the grey cheeked ones’. The Messenger of Allah (SAW) was tremendously kind to the widowed and even more gentle to their offspring.
According to book 73, number 36, of the Sahih Bukhari collection, the Prophet (SAW) once said:
“The one who looks after and works for a widow and for a poor person is like a warrior fighting for Allah’s cause.”
How inclusive is our faith that it transcends to the widowed, the divorced and the orphaned? May Allah (SWT) provide them with unconditional support and barakah through their hardships and calamities. Ameen.
