Adolescence

Q 1: How did the Prophet (peace be upon him) deal with the teenage period of Muslim youth in order to help them go through this stage?

A: The Prophet (peace be upon him) paid great attention to Muslim youth and gave them and their parents special guidance and instructions. He (peace be upon him) addressed the parents by saying: Command your children to pray when they become seven years old, and smack them for (neglecting) it when they become ten years old; and arrange their beds (to sleep) separately. (Related by Ahmad and Abu Dawud) He (peace be upon him) addressed the youth by saying: O young people, whoever among you is able to marry should marry, for it is more effective in lowering the gaze and protecting one’s chastity. And, whoever is unable to marry is recommended to observe Sawm (Fast), for it will be a shield for him (i.e. Diminishes his sexual desire and keeps from falling into sin). (Agreed upon by Imams Al-Bukhari and Muslim) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet, his family and Companions.