Muslim parents, step up and lead with intention – Sheikh Bulafu
By Ahmed Idriss
In a society where parenthood is increasingly becoming accidental and unintentional, Sheikh Hussein Ali Bulafu has raised the alarm, warning that the foundation of future generations is at risk if Muslims fail to embrace responsible parenting.
Delivering the Friday Khutbah at the Gaddafi National Mosque on May 17, Sheikh Bulafu decried the growing trend of individuals assuming the titles of “father” and “mother” without adequate preparation or understanding of the responsibilities attached.
“It is today where someone becomes a father and mother by accident,” he said.
“Where someone claims they are parents without intending to be one… as if parenthood is just about emotions,” he added.
Citing Islamic teachings, the cleric reminded believers that raising righteous children is not only a personal duty but a divine trust. He stressed that Islam provides clear and wholesome guidance for both parents and children to ensure strong family bonds, righteous offspring, and a sustainable legacy.
“If parenthood is attacked, no generation will ever prosper,” Sheikh Bulafu warned, adding “If we want a perfect future, we must check our parenting styles.”
He referenced the Qur’anic supplication made by the righteous—“Rabbana hab lana min azwajinawa dhurriyyatina qurrata a’yunin waj’alna lil-muttaqina imama”—as a reminder that raising good children requires divine help and purposeful parenting.
The Sheikh emphasized that true legacy is not material inheritance but raising children who uphold moral values and elevate the reputation of their families.
“How many 20-year-olds today are living off the reputation of their parents?” he asked. “You must raise children who will not let you down—who will be role models for others.”
Quoting the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Sheikh Bulafu urged parents to begin instilling values early in life. He referenced the hadith: “Order your children to pray when they are seven years old.”
However, he noted that brain development today is far ahead, urging parents not to delay moral instruction.
“Maybe the 7-year-old then is today’s 4-year-old. If your 4-year-old can operate a smartphone, they can be taught prayer and values,” he noted.
The sermon also addressed broken homes and single parenting, calling on parents to stop blaming each other and instead focus on their divine duty to their children.
“Please, if you’re a single father, stop the blame game. Be a father. If you’re a single mother, stop the blame game. Be a mother,” he urged, adding “We are not going to victimise the little ones because of something a mature person did.”
He called for renewed respect for the roles of fatherhood and motherhood, urging parents not to undermine each other in front of their children and to invest emotionally and spiritually in their upbringing.
