Killing within family a grave sin in Islam — Cleric

An Islamic scholar, Dr Isha Tanko, spoke with Weekend Trust on the growing cases of violence among family members in Kano State and what Islam teaches about life, anger and discipline.

From a religious perspective, how does Islam view the sanctity of family and the taking of human life, especially within the household?

Islam places the highest value on human life, whether within the family or outside it. The unlawful killing of a human being is one of the gravest sins in Islam, attracting the anger of Allah, His curse and severe punishment in the hereafter.

It is even more serious when such an act occurs within the household, because family bonds are sacred in Islam. When killings begin to happen within families, it is a dangerous sign of moral decay and, as mentioned in Islamic teachings, it is among the signs of the approaching end times.

Why do you think cases of young people killing or attacking family members appear to be on the increase in Kano?

There are many factors. Prominent among them are; drug abuse, unemployment, high illiteracy level and lack of proper youth mentorship.  Another major issue is poor tarbiyya (moral upbringing) and negligence by parents and the wider community. In addition, the internet and social media expose young people to negative influences, behaviours and ideas that contradict Islamic values, especially when there is no proper guidance.

When a person lacks taqwa (fear of Allah), proper tarbiyya and discipline, he or she becomes a slave to personal desires and impulses. Such a person will not feel accountable to Allah or society and may engage in any form of wrongdoing without shame or restraint.

This spiritual emptiness makes violent behaviour more likely, even against one’s own family members. Islam strongly teaches patience, self-restraint and forgiveness. Anger is described as being from the fire of Hell, and the Prophet (SAW) repeatedly advised believers to control it.

When someone allows anger to dominate him or her and loses emotional control, that person has placed himself or herself in the path of destruction. Many family tragedies occur when people abandon patience and act under uncontrolled emotion, which Islam clearly warns against.

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