No child is born but upon Fitra. He then said. Recite: The nature made by Allah in which He created man, there is no altering of Allah's nature; that is the right religion."
The Book of Destiny - Sahih Muslim 2658 d
This narration from Sahih Muslim addresses the fundamental Islamic concept of Fitra - the innate natural disposition with which Allah creates every human being.
Exegesis of the Hadith
The term "Fitra" refers to the primordial state of purity and innate recognition of divine unity that every child is born with, before external influences shape their beliefs and actions.
The Quranic verse referenced (Surah Ar-Rum 30:30) emphasizes that this natural disposition is Allah's creation and represents the upright religion - Islam in its essential form.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars explain that children are born predisposed to recognize their Lord, and it is their parents and environment that may lead them to other paths.
This hadith establishes the principle of original innocence in Islamic theology, contrasting with concepts of original sin found in other traditions.
Practical Implications
This teaching encourages Muslims to nurture children according to their natural disposition toward goodness and monotheism.
It also serves as a reminder that deviation from this natural state occurs through external influences, not through inherent human corruption.