Q: A Muslim has eight children from two wives and he is keen on bringing the children up according to the Islamic teachings. He says there are many evils and hardships in this age that makes it very hard for a parent to raise his children the right way. Is it permissible to use contraceptive pills or other methods to temporarily stop having more children? Please give us your Fatwa (legal opinion issued by a qualified Muslim scholar).

A: The future is a part of the Ghayb (the Unseen) known only to Allah (Exalted be He). A man does not know who among his children will be good; the ones whom he already gave birth to or the ones who will still be born to him, sons or daughters. A Muslim has to put his trust in Allah (Exalted be He), leave his affairs to Him, and abstain along with his wife from using contraceptives, regardless of their form. Allah (Exalted be He) may grant them in the future righteous offspring that bring them joy in this world and in the Hereafter. Furthermore, Allah (Exalted be He) may reward a Muslim for trusting Him and relying on Him by making their current and future offspring good, by blessing their religion and life with their offspring, and by saving them from the trials and evils of people. Verily, the hearts of all people are between two of the fingers of the Compassionate Lord. He turns them to any direction He likes. May Allah grant us all success, guide us to the best of deeds, and make us adhere to Al-Haqq (the Truth) until we meet Him. (Part No. 19; Page No. 302) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.