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FAMILY IS FIRST: The first form of human society; the first experience with community; the first union between man and woman, without which neither could exist. Family is not only our proximal reason for being. It is the cause for human continuance. Deeper still, human happiness depends upon family, on its stability and wise governance.
It is thus the first model for political society, as well. Interestingly, in the original meaning of its Greek root, ‘economy’ signified “a family,” or the domestic management of resources, both property and people

This is close to what the Qur’an tells us of commendable family guardianship in the celebrated Surah of Light (24). Sadly, it is not the common meaning of “a good family” between us today.

The “good family” in Islam is not one possessed of wealth and social prestige, but a household filled with seven lamps: Faith in Allah’s Oneness and in the single-souled origin of all human beings; sincerity to Him, then to all others; patience in His service and testing, and in the aid and affliction of others; high love of the All-Loving, and love of all whose love increases one in His love (all family members for whom we are responsible first, and for others, especially the poor, the orphan, the widow, and the stricken); forgiveness, much besought from Allah in the speech and hearts of the household, and much bestowed upon others who have failed them; lovingkindness for one another and others, ever for the sake of the Lovingkind One alone; and help to others unto Allah and in His behalf.

Such is the home that Islam builds, the ideal of family to which Allah and His Messenger have called us. How far are we from it? How close is our Community to it? How many are the misdeeds we have made by this measure, against father and mother, over daughter and son? Is it too late? Is there no help, no hope? Are we alone?

We at Al-Jumuah plan to take a year looking to the Muslim family as we are and can be, with honesty and humility, knowing that the best time to right ourselves and kindle anew our faith and family hearths is now. Light upon Light! Allah guides to His light whomever He so will. And His is a Light that never flickers or fades.

We invite your comments and the robust and passionate discussion of family and friends that the Muslim home so plainly merits