When Does a Child Become Obligated to Follow Islamic Rulings?

Compiled by: Dr. Muhammad Zia-ur-Rahman Azmi (رحمه الله)

Definition of Religious Obligation (Taklif) for Children:​

A boy becomes obligated (Mukallaf) to observe Islamic rulings when he reaches puberty and possesses understanding (‘Aqil). The criteria for puberty include:

1. Reaching the age of 15 years.
2. The growth of coarse hair around the pubic region.
3. Experiencing a wet dream (Ihtilam) or ejaculation of semen due to sexual arousal.

For girls, puberty is determined by the same criteria, with the addition of menstruation.

If any of these signs are present before the age of 15, the child is considered Mukallaf (obligated to follow Islamic duties).

Obligatory Duties After Puberty:​

Once a child reaches puberty:

• Salah (Prayer) and Sawm (Fasting) become obligatory.
• If financially capable, Hajj becomes obligatory.

However, before puberty, the following guidelines apply:

• Children aged seven or older should be encouraged to pray and fast if they can handle it.
• Zakat: If a child possesses wealth that reaches the prescribed Nisab and one lunar year passes over it, Zakat is obligatory, regardless of their age (puberty is not a condition for Zakat).

[Al-Lajnah ad-Daimah: 3575]

Key Points:

• Puberty marks the beginning of obligatory religious duties.
• Parents are advised to introduce Salah and Sawm from the age of seven.
• Zakat applies to the wealth of minors if it meets the conditions of Nisab and duration.