Looking after girls - Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 78

Jabir ibn 'Abdullah reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "Anyone who has three daughters and provides for them, clothes them and shows mercy to them will definitely enter the Garden." A man from the people said, "And two daughters, Messenger of Allah?" He said, "And two."

Commentary on the Virtue of Caring for Daughters

This noble hadith from Al-Adab Al-Mufrad reveals the immense reward awaiting those who properly care for their daughters. The Prophet ﷺ guarantees Paradise for anyone who fulfills three essential responsibilities: providing sustenance (food and necessities), clothing them appropriately, and showing genuine mercy and compassion.

The initial mention of three daughters establishes the minimum for this great reward, but the subsequent question and answer demonstrate the Prophet's ﷺ mercy extends this promise even to those with two daughters. This shows the tremendous value Islam places on the proper upbringing and care of female children.

Scholars explain that "showing mercy" encompasses proper Islamic education, kind treatment, protection of their honor, and arranging suitable marriages. This comprehensive care transforms what pre-Islamic Arabs considered a burden into a means of attaining the highest spiritual reward - entry into Paradise.

Historical Context and Significance

In pre-Islamic Arabia, female infanticide was practiced due to considering daughters as economic liabilities. Islam revolutionized this thinking by elevating the status of daughters and making their care a pathway to divine pleasure.

The Prophet's ﷺ emphatic "definitely" (la) indicates the certainty of this reward, removing any doubt about the outcome for those who fulfill these conditions. This assurance serves as powerful motivation for parents to invest fully in their daughters' wellbeing.