Tahnik for babies

Q: Is Tahnik (chewing dates or any sweet and rubbing it inside the mouth of a newborn baby) a Sunnah (supererogatory act of worship following the example of the Prophet)? Nowadays, some people do this for their children; they make Tahnik for them with dates or sweets, or is it specific to the Prophet (peace be upon him)?

A: Tahnik for a newborn baby is a Sunnah which has been confirmed by the action of the Prophet (peace be upon him) for babies born to some Companions (may Allah be pleased with them). This indicates the generality of this action for the Ummah (nation based on one creed) of the Prophet (peace be upon him). This is also based on the saying of Allah (Part No. 10; Page No. 472) (Glorified be He): Indeed in the Messenger of Allâh (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) you have a good example to follow .May Allah grant us success. May Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.