Want More Children but Worried About Poverty? 7 Faith-Based Strategies That Help

In today’s world, economic and social issues strongly affect families’ decisions about how many children to have. This matter is especially significant in Islamic societies where religion and culture play important roles in daily life. In this article we attempt to examine how, under difficult economic conditions, it is possible to increase the number of children while at the same time observing the principles of Islam.

The impact of economic conditions on family decision-making

A family’s economic situation is a key factor that plays a substantial role in decisions to have more children. In many Islamic countries, poverty can be seen as a serious obstacle to increasing family size. Young people often refrain from deciding to have children because of fear of the high costs of raising them.

Social and cultural changes

Social and cultural changes also have a significant effect on family decision-making. With women entering the workforce and shifts in traditional family roles, rising costs of education, and the desire to provide a better life for children, all these factors push parents toward having fewer children.

Islam and childbearing

Emphasis on childbearing

Islam regards childbearing as a blessing and a mercy. The Qur’an states that children are the adornment of this life and a source of God’s mercy. Therefore, increasing the number of children is encouraged in Islam.

Parents’ responsibility in raising children

Given that Islam emphasizes childbearing, parents are also obligated to properly educate and raise their children. This responsibility does not rest solely on the father and mother; society must also provide support in this regard.

Economic problems and solutions

Family financial management

Families should pay special attention to their financial management. With proper planning and saving, they can more easily increase their number of children. For example, making shopping lists and avoiding unnecessary purchases can effectively reduce expenses.

Social support

Non-governmental organizations and social institutions can assist families in this area. Creating programs for child-rearing and meeting their basic needs can motivate parents to have more children.

Islamic approaches to increasing birth rates

Education and upbringing

Teaching Islamic concepts to families can help them better understand the importance of childbearing. Educational sessions and workshops should be held to encourage families to have children.

Creating a supportive environment

Creating a suitable environment for raising children—especially in Islamic communities—can play an important role in parental decision-making. For example, improving living conditions and providing educational and health facilities can help families feel more secure about having additional children.

Childbearing in Islam

Questions & Answers

1. Is there any limit on the number of children in Islam?
   No. Islam encourages childbearing and urges parents to have more children.

2. How can families increase the number of children during economic hardship?
   Financial management, proper planning, and using social and educational resources can help families.

3. Is it possible to raise children in difficult economic conditions?
   Yes. With appropriate planning and social support, raising children under such conditions is possible.

4. What programs can be held to educate parents about childbearing?
   Holding workshops and educational sessions to familiarize families with the importance of childbearing and financial management can be effective.

Conclusion

Increasing the number of children in Islam despite poverty is a challenging issue that requires attention and special measures. By following Islamic principles and applying practical measures, families can be helped to achieve their goals regarding childbearing despite economic difficulties.