The family as an institution has lost its importance in the developed world. At the same time, the prevailing materialism in the educational system and the absence of strong community are problematic for Muslims. Muslim families now face many challenges, both internal and external, and holding the family together and raising children in Islam are becoming increasingly daunting tasks. Muslims seem ill-equipped to withstand the storm of secularism and materialism and increasing numbers of Muslims think their family bonding is slipping and they are 'losing' their children. However, the problem lies in a poor understanding of Islam and contemporary life and, in some cases, in apathy. The book addresses the issues of marriage and family in a holistic way from an Islamic perspective. It is the result of an oft-repeated on-line course on parenting offered by an Internet-based organization. Witness Pioneer, and subsequently displayed on the Salaam web page.

About the Author

Dr. Muhammad Abdul Bari is an educationalist with a PhD and PGCE from King's College London and a Management degree from the Open University. He has worked as an Air Force Officer, Researcher in Physics, Science Teacher and now as SEN Specialist in London and has broad experience in Da'wah and Youth and Community work, having held senior positions with organizations like the Muslim Council of Britain and the Islamic Forum Europe. Dr. Abdul Bari is a member of the Inner Cities Religious Council and Pan-London Advisory Group on Faith, is a facilitator of Race Equality Unit's (REU) 'Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities Parent Programme' and writes extensively on youth and community issues. He is passionate about faith and community issues. He is passionate about faith and community regeneration, with a view to achieving common good for humanity. He is married with four children.