ASHEIKH ARKAM NOORAMITH
COLOMBO : As the world marks Children’s Day, we must pause and remember the millions of children around the world who continue to suffer from war, displacement,hunger,poverty and violence-especially the innocent children of Palestine,as well as children facing suffering in our neighborhood and around the world.
The Qur’an presents a profound and haunting question:
وَإِذَا الْمَوْءُودَةُ سُئِلَتْ بِأَيِّ ذَنبٍ قُتِلَتْ
“And when the girl-child who was buried alive is asked, ‘For what sin was she killed?’”
Qur’an 81:8–9
These verses remind us of the sacred value of every innocent child’s life. The child is not responsible for war, politics, poverty, conflict, or the circumstances into which he or she is born. A child’s life is precious, and protecting that life is a responsibility entrusted to humanity.
Every child is a gift and an amanah (trust) from Almighty Allah. Their right to life,safety,dignity, nourishment, education, healthcare, shelter and happiness must be protected.
Therefore, as parents, families,religious and community leaders,political leaders,corporate leaders and members of society,we must place the best interests and protection of children at the heart of our decisions.
Today, while we symbolically, commemorate Children’s Day , let us also remember those children who have been killed,orphaned, displaced and deprived of their basic rights. Their suffering should not become a statistic or something we simply grow accustomed to seeing.
We must ask ourselves: What have we done, and what can we still do,within our capacity, to protect innocent children?
For one day, we will all stand before Almighty Allah, and we will be answerable for the responsibilities entrusted to us.
May Allah protect every child, bring relief to those who are suffering, grant mercy to those who have lost their lives, and guide humanity towards justice, compassion, peace and the protection of every innocent life.
Every child is an amanah. Every child deserves dignity. Every child deserves a future.
