17. Preparing the New Generation

The Quran documents a prayer of the Prophet Abraham, offered when he settled his wife Hagar and son Ishmael in the Arabian desert:

“[Remember] when Abraham said, “My Lord, make this a city of peace and help me and my children to keep away from worshipping idols. My Lord, they have led so many men astray! Anyone who follows me is with me, but if anyone turns against me, You are surely forgiving and merciful. O Lord! I have settled some of my offspring in an uncultivable valley near Your Sacred House, Lord, so that they might establish their prayers. So, make people’s hearts incline towards them and provide them with fruits so that they may be grateful.” (Quran, 14:35-37)

This passage recalls a significant chapter in history, shaped by the perseverance of a woman named Hagar. During Abraham’s time, idolatry was widespread, and human society was entirely dominated by a polytheistic culture. The mindset of every child born in that era was influenced by the prevailing cultural norms.

By divine command, Abraham took his wife and infant son out of those surroundings and settled them in a remote valley—a place of natural simplicity, free from cultural corruption and social conditioning.

In such a pure and untainted environment, a new generation was nurtured—one that developed from its original God-given nature. This lineage later became known as the Children of Ishmael, from whom the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was born, and from whom emerged the noble companions who elevated the prophetic call of monotheism from a mere idea to a world-changing revolution.

The story of Hagar serves as a timeless example for all women. It illustrates that each woman carries the responsibility of nurturing her children through education and moral guidance, thereby helping them become better human beings.

In every era, her role is to shape the next generation—continually enriching humanity with virtuous and God-conscious individuals.