Do you ever feel like you're constantly juggling—being a mother, a wife, and still wanting to increase your Islamic knowledge? You’re not alone.
Many mothers find themselves trying to balance the beautiful but demanding role of motherhood with their desire to deepen their understanding of Islam. The struggle is real, but the good news is that finding that balance is possible.
Islam encourages the pursuit of knowledge, and for many, it’s a natural part of personal growth and striving toward better worship of Allah. Yet, daily responsibilities often leave mothers feeling overwhelmed, unsure of how studying fits into the picture.
The key lies in balance—ensuring that your role as a mother is fulfilled while still growing in your Islamic knowledge.
The Rights of Children
One of the first things to understand is that our children have immense rights over us. As Muslim mothers, we are entrusted with their upbringing, which is a major responsibility in the sight of Allah.
- The Prophet ﷺ said:
أَلاَ كُلُّكُمْ رَاعٍ وَكُلُّكُمْ مَسْئُولٌ عَنْ رَعِيَّتِهِ…
"Beware. every one of you is a shepherd and every one is answerable with regard to his flock…" [Sahih Muslim 1829a]
This hadith reminds us that caring for our children is an obligation that takes precedence over other voluntary activities, including seeking knowledge.
While it’s commendable to desire to increase your Islamic knowledge, parenting is a duty.
However, this doesn’t mean you have to give up your studies entirely—it’s about finding the right balance.
Islam offers flexibility, allowing space for seeking knowledge while fulfilling your duties as a mother. The key is to balance both without sacrificing one for the other, by being intentional about how you allocate your time and energy.
Involving Your Children in Your Studies
A great way to harmonise your roles as a mother and a student of knowledge is to involve your children in your learning. While it may seem challenging, there are many creative ways to integrate your studies with parenting.
When you’re studying Quran, Arabic, Tajweed, or other Islamic subjects, find ways for your children to participate in small, simple tasks.
For example, if you’re memorising the Quran, your children can join by learning shorter surahs suitable for their age.
If you’re studying Tafseer, simplify the lessons into stories they can enjoy.
Let them help with study materials, like fetching your notes or sitting beside you while you study.
This approach not only helps you stay on track but also introduces your children to the beauty of Islamic knowledge from a young age.
One of the best examples of a mother who was a great student of knowledge is Umm Salamah رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهَا, the wife of the Prophet ﷺ. She was a mother and one of the most knowledgeable women in Islam, known for her wisdom and understanding of the religion. Despite her duties as a wife and mother, she was deeply involved in learning and passing on knowledge. Her example reminds us that motherhood and scholarship can beautifully coexist.
Another incredible example is Fatimah bint Muhammad رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهَا, the daughter of the Prophet ﷺ. Known for her deep understanding of Islam and her role as a mother, she balanced both duties while raising her children, including Hasan and Husayn, who went on to become central figures in Islamic history.
Similarly, Aishah bint Abi Bakr رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُمَا, one of the foremost scholars in Islamic history, was known not only for her immense knowledge but also for her care of the Prophet's ﷺ family and her contributions to Islamic jurisprudence. Though she didn’t have children, her role in nurturing the community of believers and passing on valuable knowledge exemplifies how women can serve as scholars and nurturers simultaneously.
By involving your children in your studies, you are giving them a head start in their own journey of Islamic learning, while also following in the footsteps of these great women who left an unforgettable legacy.
It creates a family atmosphere centred around learning and seeking the pleasure of Allah, making Islamic studies a natural part of their upbringing.
Balancing Responsibilities
The first step to balancing responsibilities is establishing a routine that works for both you and your children.
One way to manage this balance is by creating a schedule around your children’s needs. Identify times during the day when your children need you most and dedicate that time to them.
Whether it’s playing with them, helping them with their own learning, or simply spending quality time, make sure they feel loved, seen, and cared for.
At the same time, carve out specific moments for your studies. These moments could be when your children are napping, at school, or occupied with independent play.
One of the greatest historical examples of a woman who balanced motherhood with scholarship is Imam Malik's mother, who took an active role in nurturing her son’s education. She would encourage him to seek knowledge, dress him appropriately for his lessons, and instil in him the values of respect and dedication to learning. Without her guidance, Imam Malik may not have reached the scholarly heights he did.
By planning your day around these windows of time, you can ensure that both your children’s needs and your personal goals in seeking knowledge are being met.
Remember that flexibility is key. If one day doesn’t go as planned, don’t be hard on yourself. Adjust and try again the next day. The important thing is to keep your intentions sincere and your actions consistent.
Knowledge for Practice, Not Just Information
It’s essential to remind ourselves that the purpose of seeking knowledge in Islam isn’t just about accumulating information or memorising facts.
True knowledge is meant to transform our actions, character, and connection with Allah.
- In the Quran, Allah describes those who possess knowledge as those who stand in prayer at night, fearing the Hereafter and hoping for His mercy:
أَمَّنْ هُوَ قَـٰنِتٌ ءَانَآءَ ٱلَّيْلِ سَاجِدًا وَقَآئِمًا يَحْذَرُ ٱلْـَٔاخِرَةَ وَيَرْجُوا۟ رَحْمَةَ رَبِّهِۦ ۗ قُلْ هَلْ يَسْتَوِى ٱلَّذِينَ يَعْلَمُونَ وَٱلَّذِينَ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ ۗ إِنَّمَا يَتَذَكَّرُ أُو۟لُوا۟ ٱلْأَلْبَـٰبِ ٩
Is one who is obedient to Allâh, prostrating himself or standing (in prayer) during the hours of the night, fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the Mercy of his Lord (like one who disbelieves)? Say: "Are those who know equal to those who know not?" It is only men of understanding who will remember (i.e. get a lesson from Allâh’s Signs and Verses). [Az-Zumar 9]
This verse highlights that knowledge is not measured by how much we know but by how we apply it.
If the knowledge you acquire isn’t making you a better mother, wife, and Muslim, it’s not fulfilling its purpose.
The knowledge you gain should improve your relationships, especially with your children. It should help you become more patient, understanding, and attentive to their needs.
Imam Shafi'i often spoke of the importance of balancing knowledge with action. He learned this balance from his mother, a pious woman who dedicated herself to his education after his father’s death. She would travel with him to attend classes and instil in him the value of practising what he learned.
Through your studies, you will find yourself better equipped to raise your children in a way that pleases Allah, fulfilling both your duties as a mother and your goals as a student of knowledge.
Time to Play, Time to Grow
While your studies are important, your children are your greatest investment. The time you spend nurturing, teaching, and helping them grow will yield rewards in both this life and the next. Giving them time to play, explore, and bond with you is an act of worship, and for this, you will be rewarded by Allah.
In fact, time spent with your children can sometimes be more impactful than time dedicated to your studies.
Playing with them, teaching them Islamic values, and nurturing their character is an immense responsibility that shouldn’t be neglected. However, that doesn’t mean you need to give up seeking knowledge.
The key is balance and intention. Spending time with your children and raising them according to Islamic teachings is just as valuable as seeking knowledge for yourself.
Creating Synergy Between Studies and Motherhood
The goal is to create synergy between your role as a mother and your pursuit of Islamic knowledge. By involving your children in your learning, setting routines that allow for both study and play, and viewing your knowledge as a way to become a better mother, you can find a balance that works for your family.
There’s no need to cut back on your study hours or feel guilty about wanting to grow in Islamic knowledge.
As long as you’re mindful of your children’s rights and make time for them, you can continue progressing in your studies.
Conclusion
Motherhood and seeking knowledge are not mutually exclusive roles. With thoughtful planning, responsibility, and a clear understanding of the purpose of Islamic knowledge, you can balance both. Your children are your greatest responsibility, but that doesn’t mean you need to put your own growth on hold. By finding harmony between these two roles, you can succeed in both this life and the Hereafter.
Take Your Next Step
Are you a mother who’s passionate about learning Islam but struggling to find time? At AMAU Academy, our Student of Knowledge Program is designed to fit into your busy life. Study Islam in-depth at your own pace, all while fulfilling your responsibilities as a mother.
Even better, you’ll join a community of like-minded mothers and wives who are also on the journey of seeking knowledge. Connect, share, support, and motivate each other as you study together.
Take control of your learning journey. Join AMAU Academy today and start studying on your terms.
