The Significance and Esteemed Position of Youth in Society (Part One)
Islam’s Viewpoint on Youth
Certainly, youth is one of the blessings of Allah, as it represents a period when an individual reaches both physical and mental maturity, attaining the highest level of development. In numerous verses of the Holy Quran, Allah Almighty introduces the high status and position of humans in worldly and hereafter affairs and emphasizes the value of youth, highlighting their honorable position and responsibilities within society. Similarly, the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) provided essential guidance regarding the high status of youth, which is substantiated by rational and narrated evidence.
It is clear that in every society, the continuation of human life, the protection of material and spiritual assets, and progress in various fields depend significantly on human power. Among the various demographics, the group that plays a pivotal and effective role in this regard is the youth.
When we examine the history of past eras, we find that the majority of revolutions, uprisings, positive changes, and advancements have been driven by the young people of those societies. This demographic has been instrumental in social and political developments. Given this understanding of the importance of youth, we can boldly assert that the existence of young people is one of the key elements of progress and advancement in societies. For this reason, nations and governments have always prioritized youth, actively seeking to engage this group to harness their potential for beneficial purposes.
As previously mentioned, Islam places great emphasis on youth and values this critical period of life. A notable Hadith illustrates this; one of the few who will be under the shadow of the Divine Throne on the Day of Judgment is a youth who has grown and developed in the worship of the Creator:
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that he heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say: “Allah, (SWT), places seven [groups] under His shadow [throne] on a day when there is no shadow except His shadow:
1. A just ruler
2. A young man who has grown up in the worship of Allah
3. A man whose heart is attached to the mosques
4. Two people who became friends for the sake of Allah, met together for that purpose, and separated for it
5. A man who is invited by a beautiful and noble woman to commit adultery, but he responds: ‘I fear Allah.’
6. A person who gives charity in such a way that his left hand does not know what his right hand is giving
7. A person who remembers Allah in private and tears flow from his eyes.”
Thus, the stage of youth is considered one of the golden periods of a person’s life. Because of this, Islam has given considerable attention to the upbringing of the younger generation; the personality of every human being develops and matures during this period. The motives and personal characteristics cultivated during youth continue to influence individuals throughout their lives.
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