An infant is born according to his (true) nature. It is his parents Who make him a Jew, a Christian, just as a she-camel gives birth to its young ones. Do you find any deficiency in their limbs? You cut their ears (i. e. after birth). They (the Companions of the Holy Prophet) said: What is your opinion about him who dies in infancy? Thereupon Allah's Apostle (ﷺ) said: It is Allah alone Who knows best what they would be doing.
The Book of Destiny - Sahih Muslim 2658g
This profound hadith from Sahih Muslim addresses the fundamental Islamic concept of fitrah (primordial nature) and divine decree. The infant is born in a state of natural submission to Allah, pure and untainted by theological error. This purity represents humanity's original covenant with the Creator.
Commentary on Parental Influence
The parents' role in shaping religious identity is compared to the natural birthing process of animals. Just as camels give birth to complete offspring, humans are born spiritually complete. The subsequent alteration of ears symbolizes how external influences, particularly from parents, distort the innate fitrah.
Scholars explain that while parents provide religious upbringing, ultimate guidance remains with Allah. The child's eventual path reflects both divine knowledge and human influence, yet accountability begins only after reaching maturity and receiving clear guidance.
Theological Implications of Infant Death
When the Companions inquired about infants who die young, the Prophet's response "Allah knows best what they would be doing" demonstrates divine wisdom beyond human comprehension. Classical scholars interpret this as meaning Allah's knowledge encompasses all potential paths.
This affirms that infants who die before maturity are under Allah's mercy, as they haven't reached the age of legal responsibility. Their fate rests solely with divine justice and mercy, reflecting the perfect balance between predestination and divine compassion in Islamic theology.