Sport must not be neglected in raising children, especially boys. Not only is it a form of entertainment for them but it is also a preparation. In it are powerful metaphors that link to life at large. For example:
- Horse-riding: The horse-rider learns to control and dictate his beast, as he will be required to control and dictate his Nafs.
- Swimming: The swimmer gains mastery over an alien environment, as will be required of him in rising above temptations and not drowning in desires.
- Archery: The archer is committed to patiently persevere in refining his technique. Concentrated on the greatest of precision and the smallest of detail he sets out to hit the mark. Similarly he will set his ambitions in life and focus in on his targets.
- Martial Arts: The primitiveness is unmatched and the purpose (like in life) is clear. The resulting confidence parries away with doubt and depression, and the developed strength (inner and outer) is priceless in overcoming the challenges and obstacles that life has to offer.
3 comments:
Recommended Audio: 'Raising Muslim Boys' by Shaykh Hamza Yusuf
I've never thought of it like that. Amazing.
Same here. I was quite amazed when I heard it put like that.
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