The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) highlighted the profound value and reward associated with the loss of a child, including through miscarriage.
The core teaching regarding the death of a child, which would encompass miscarriage, is found in a Hadith (saying of the Prophet):
"When a person's child dies, Allah the Most High asks His angels, 'Have you taken out the life of the child of My slave?' They reply in the affirmative."
This Hadith (and similar narrations) continues, describing Allah questioning the angels about taking the "fruit of his heart," and then about the slave's reaction. Upon hearing that the slave praised Allah and said, "Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return," Allah commands a house to be built for the slave in Paradise, called the House of Praise.
Key Takeaways from the Prophet's Teachings on Child Loss (including Miscarriage):
- Divine Test and Reward: The death of a child is presented as a test from Allah, and those who respond with patience and acceptance are promised a great reward in the Hereafter, specifically a house in Paradise.
- Emphasis on Patience (Sabr) and Gratitude (Shukr): The Hadith highlights the importance of sabr (patient perseverance) and shukr (gratitude) in the face of adversity. Expressing these virtues is key to earning Allah's pleasure and the promised reward. Saying "Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return" (Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un) is a key expression of this acceptance.
- Comfort and Consolation: These teachings offer comfort and consolation to parents who have experienced the pain of miscarriage or infant loss, reminding them that their suffering is not in vain and that they are not alone in their grief. The promise of reward is a testament to Allah's mercy and compassion.
In essence, the Prophet's teachings on this topic emphasize that even in the face of immense loss like a miscarriage, there is opportunity for spiritual growth and immense reward through faith, patience, and acceptance of Allah's will.
