The Tradition of Adhan for Newborns
In Islam, the birth of a child is a moment filled with joy and gratitude. One of the first acts performed when a Muslim baby is born is the recitation of the Adhan (the Islamic call to prayer) in the newborn right ear. This beautiful Sunnah holds deep spiritual meaning, introducing the child to the faith and creating an early bond with Islamic teachings.
The Significance of Adhan for Newborns in Islam
The Adhan, softly recited into the newborn’s ear, serves as a blessing and establishes their first connection to the Islamic faith. This initial act of faith is believed to instill a spiritual foundation. Furthermore, it connects the child to Allah (SWT) and guides them toward a life rooted in the core beliefs of Islam.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed this act when his grandsons, Hazrat Hasan (RA) and Hazrat Husayn (RA), were born.
Hazrat AbuRafi (RA) narrated that:
I saw the Messenger of Allah (SAW) uttering the call to prayer (Adhan) in the ear of al-Hasan ibn Ali when Fatimah gave birth to him. [Sunan Abi Dawud 5105]
This symbolic act establishes the child’s lifelong relationship with prayer, worship, and belief in Allah (SWT). The words of the Adhan are not just a prayer but a declaration of the foundation of the Islamic faith, introducing the newborn to:
How to Perform the Adhan for a Newborn: A Step-by-Step Guide
Giving the Adhan to a newborn is a simple yet profound act. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform it:
- Hold the Baby Gently: The father or a close male relative typically performs this act. The person should gently hold the newborn, nestling it with care.
- Whisper in the Right Ear: Begin by softly reciting the Adhan in the Baby’s right ear. The words should be whispered clearly and gently.
- Recite the Full Adhan: The first words a Muslim baby hears are:
- Recite the Iqamah (Optional): Some families also choose to recite the Iqamah, the second prayer call, in the newborn’s left ear. The Iqamah is a shorter version of the Adhan.
This simple act creates a lifelong impression. It starts the Baby’s life with the remembrance of Allah (SWT), setting the tone for their future spiritual growth.
The Sunnah of a Newborn Baby in Islam
Welcoming a newborn into the world in Islam isn’t just about the Adhan. Other beautiful Sunnah practices go hand-in-hand, each with its meaning and blessing. These are rooted in Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings, ensuring the child’s spiritual and physical well-being from the first moments of life.
Tahnik (Softening the Palate)
Another significant Sunnah is Tahnik, where a small piece of date is softened and gently rubbed on the newborn’s palate. If a date is unavailable, another sweet substance may be used. This practice carries both religious and health benefits. It is believed to strengthen the baby’s mouth and jaw muscles and introduce them to a blessed act, as it was performed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on many occasions.
Additionally, the sweetness of the date symbolizes a sweet beginning to life, while the physical act supports the baby’s ability to suckle effectively.
Naming the Baby
Naming a child is a meaningful event in Islam, as names carry spiritual significance and reflect one’s connection to faith. According to Sunnah, it is recommended that a baby be given a meaningful and positive name, ideally by the seventh day following their birth. A name is chosen not only for its beauty but also for its significance and the values it conveys.
Names such as Abdullah (Servant of Allah Almighty) or Abdur Rahman (Servant of the Merciful) are highly encouraged, as they are beloved to Allah (SWT). In addition, names of prophets, companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), or names that embody positive attributes and qualities are popular choices among Muslims. The purpose is to give the child a name that connects them to Islamic heritage and virtues.
Islamic tradition also provides guidelines on avoiding names with negative meanings. Furthermore, it advises against names that imply arrogance or suggest servitude to anyone other than Allah (SWT). Selecting a good name is considered an act of respect and a prayer for the child’s well-being. Moreover, it is believed that a person’s name can influence their character and outlook on life.
Aqiqah: The Sacrificial Offering
The Aqiqah is a recommended Sunnah act that involves slaughtering an animal (two sheep for a boy and one sheep for a girl) as a sign of gratitude to Allah (SWT) for the gift of a newborn. This practice also helps the community, as the meat from the sacrifice is distributed to the needy and relatives.
It was narrated by Hazrat Abdullah bin Buraidah (RA) from his father,
the Messenger of Allah offered the ‘Aqiqah for Al-Hasan and Al-Husain. [Sunan an-Nasa’i 4213]
The Aqiqah is ideally performed on the seventh day after the child’s birth but can be conducted later if necessary. Beyond the act of sacrifice, this tradition formally celebrates the newborn’s arrival and fulfills a charitable duty, sharing blessings with the community.
Shaving the Baby’s Head
On the seventh day after birth, it is Sunnah to shave the baby’s head. This practice signifies cleanliness and purification, symbolizing the shedding of impurities. Additionally, shaving the head is believed to be beneficial for the baby’s health, promoting hair growth and maintaining cleanliness.
Circumcision
Male circumcision, known as Khitan, is an important Sunnah in Islam. It is considered an act of purification and is recommended to be performed early in a boy’s life. Although circumcision is not obligatory to perform immediately after birth, many parents choose to carry it out within the first few days or weeks.
In Islam, circumcision is highly regarded for promoting hygiene and cleanliness, making it a valued practice for all Muslim males.
Breastfeeding
Islam places great emphasis on the importance of breastfeeding. The Quran encourages mothers to breastfeed their children for two full years if possible, as this practice not only nourishes the child but also strengthens the bond between mother and child. Breastfeeding is considered a right of the child, and mothers are encouraged to receive support in fulfilling this vital duty.
In situations where breastfeeding is not feasible, Islam allows for alternatives, prioritizing the health and well-being of the child above all.
Rights of the Child in Islam
In Islam, every child is granted essential rights from birth. These rights include being given a good name, the right to be breastfed, and the right to be raised in a loving and nurturing environment. Additionally, children have the right to receive education, protection, and both physical and emotional support.
Islamic teachings offer guidance on raising righteous, well-rounded children with strong faith and moral values. Explore practical insights on the principles of parenting in Islam, including tips for nurturing young souls and raising children in the light of Islamic values.
- The Art of Parenting in Islam – Nurturing Young Souls
- Islamic Parenting Tips: Raising Children in the Light of Islam
Avoiding Superstitions
It is essential to recognize that some cultural practices surrounding a child’s birth lack basis in Islamic teachings. Muslims are encouraged to avoid superstitions, such as tying objects around the baby to ward off evil or participating in un-Islamic rituals. Instead, they should adhere to the practices taught by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
By focusing on Sunnah practices and avoiding superstitions, Muslims ensure that their actions are firmly rooted in authentic religious teachings.
Celebration and Gratitude
In Islam, the birth of a child is a moment for celebration and deep gratitude. Beyond performing the Aqiqah, parents are encouraged to express their thanks to Allah (SWT) through acts of charity, prayer, and good deeds. This expression of gratitude reinforces the belief that children are a blessing and a trust from Allah (SWT).
Visiting a Newborn
It is Sunnah for family and friends to visit a newborn and offer congratulations and prayers. However, visitors should be mindful of the health and comfort of both the mother and child. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged Muslims to make du’a for the newborn and to offer kind words of support to the family.
The Sunnah of a newborn in Islam provides a structured and meaningful way to welcome a new life. These practices serve religious purposes and encourage health, well-being, and a sense of community. By following these traditions, Muslim parents ensure that their child is raised with a strong foundation in the Islamic faith.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Adhan for newborn is a Sunnah act, not an obligation.
Any practicing Muslim can recite the Adhan if the father is unavailable.
You can recite the Adhan at any time within the first few days.
Only the Adhan is necessary; the Iqama is optional.
No, the Adhan is recited the same way for both boys and girls.
Muslim families can recite the Adhan in private settings, even in non-Muslim countries.
Conclusion: A Lifelong Connection with Faith
Reciting the Adhan for a newborn is a beautiful way to introduce a child to Islam, filling their first moments with words of faith, prayer, and devotion. By following the Sunnah practices—such as Adhan, Tahnik, Aqiqah, and others—parents provide their children with blessings and a strong foundation in Islam from the very beginning.
Welcoming a newborn is a moment of joy, as well as a spiritual responsibility. Through these Sunnah acts, parents nurture a lasting connection to faith and the remembrance of Allah (SWT).
Do you know someone expecting a baby soon? Share this article with them to help them understand the significance of Adhan for newborns and how they can fulfill this beautiful Sunnah. Begin your child’s spiritual journey with the blessings and guidance of Allah (SWT)!
