Katsina Times
The leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky, has emphasized the significance of religious responsibilities for children who have reached the age of accountability. He made this statement on Saturday morning, 16 Sha’aban 1446 (February 15, 2025), while addressing young boys and girls at his residence in Abuja.
Sheikh Zakzaky congratulated the children on attaining the age of Takhlif (religious accountability), describing it as a divine blessing. He explained that life itself is a gift from Allah, as human beings are created from nothing. "To be brought into existence, born from nothingness, is a great blessing from Allah," he stated.
He further elaborated on the privilege of being created as a human being, highlighting the diversity of creation. "Allah has created various creatures, including animals, birds, insects, and different beings with unique forms of movement—some walk on legs, some crawl, and others fly. Yet, Allah has chosen to create you as human beings, superior to all these creatures," he remarked.
Sheikh Zakzaky also pointed out that, beyond humans, Allah has created angels and jinn, but humans stand apart because they have been placed in a world of trials and accountability. "Unlike other beings, humans have been brought into existence to be tested—to see who will do good deeds. If one fails to perform good deeds, they risk doing the opposite," he warned.
Speaking on the weight of responsibilities upon the children, Sheikh Zakzaky explained that before reaching the age of Takhlif, a child’s actions are not recorded as sins or rewards. However, upon reaching maturity, their deeds—both good and bad—are documented.
"Until a child reaches the age of Takhlif, Allah does not hold them accountable for their actions. If they perform righteous deeds, such as prayers, fasting, charity, or showing kindness to others, they will earn rewards. However, if they neglect such acts, they will not be punished, only deprived of rewards," he explained.
He further stated that once a person reaches the stage of Baligh (maturity), they are bound by religious obligations. "Takhlif means responsibility—it is a divine obligation. While there may be no physical force compelling one to act, religiously, it becomes a duty. If one fails to fulfill these obligations, they will bear the consequences. Before maturity, performing good deeds earns rewards, but failure to do so carries no sin. After maturity, however, failing to fulfill obligations results in sin," he clarified.
Sheikh Zakzaky urged the children to take their religious duties seriously, including performing prayers, fasting, and avoiding prohibited acts.
To conclude the gathering, he led the children in a two-unit Nafila prayer, teaching them the proper method of performing Salah. He then offered prayers for their success and spiritual growth, asking Allah to bless their lives and guide them on the right path.
"May you all live long, perform good deeds, and ultimately earn a righteous reward in the hereafter," he prayed.
