The Sunnah of Justice Between Children

Prophetic Fairness, Balance & Parental Responsibility

Islam places immense emphasis on justice (ʿAdl) — especially within the home. The Sunnah of justice between children teaches parents to treat their children fairly in love, gifts, time, and attention. Favoritism creates jealousy, emotional wounds, and division, while justice builds harmony and trust.

The Prophet ﷺ clearly warned against unequal treatment among children.

The Prophet ﷺ Commanded Fairness

A companion once gifted something to one of his children and asked the Prophet ﷺ to witness it. The Prophet ﷺ asked:

“Have you given the same to all your children?”

When the man replied no, the Prophet ﷺ said:

“Fear Allah and be just between your children.”

This shows:

• Fairness is a religious obligation

• Favoritism is discouraged

• Justice begins at home

Justice in Gifts and Financial Matters

The Sunnah teaches:

• Equal distribution of gifts

• Equal financial consideration

• Avoiding preference without valid reason

If special treatment is necessary (due to illness, need, etc.), it should be:

• Justified

• Transparent

• Wise

Justice in Love and Attention

While the heart naturally inclines differently, parents must:

• Show equal affection

• Avoid public favoritism

• Distribute time fairly

Children are sensitive — small differences are deeply felt.

The Prophet ﷺ’s Example With Children

The Prophet ﷺ:

• Showed affection openly

• Treated children with mercy

• Never encouraged sibling rivalry

His leadership model was based on fairness and compassion.

Dangers of Favoritism

Unequal treatment can lead to:

• Jealousy

• Sibling rivalry

• Emotional insecurity

• Lifelong resentment

Justice prevents family division.

Balancing Justice With Wisdom

Justice does not mean ignoring individual needs.

Parents must:

• Consider age differences

• Consider special circumstances

• Maintain fairness without strict harsh equality

Islam promotes balanced justice, not rigid uniformity.

Tibb-e-Nabawi & Emotional Health Wisdom

Fair treatment:

• Builds emotional stability

• Increases trust

• Strengthens sibling relationships

• Creates secure attachment

Favoritism damages:

• Self-esteem

• Confidence

• Family unity

The Sunnah protects long-term emotional health.

Spiritual Reflection

The Sunnah of justice between children teaches:

• Parenting is accountability before Allah

• Every child is a trust

• Fairness reflects taqwā

Justice within the home builds justice in society.

Conclusion

The Sunnah of justice between children ensures harmony, emotional security, and barakah within the family. By treating children fairly in gifts, love, and attention, parents follow Prophetic guidance and fulfill a sacred trust.

Justice at home creates peace in the heart.