Is it sinful to stop breastfeeding before two years?
Question
Q. I have read that the Quran says it is a right of a child to be breastfed until they are 2 years old. I wanted to know what happens if we do not breastfeed them for 2 years. Do we get sin?
Answer
It is recommended (Mustahab) for a mother to breastfeed her child for up to two lunar years (24 Months). A child may be weaned before the expiry of two lunar years by mutual consent of the parents if the child is healthy and growing well and does not need to be breastfed anymore.
Allah Ta’ala states in the Quran: The mothers shall suckle their children for two whole years, (that is) for those who wish to complete the term of suckling… If they decide on weaning after mutual consent and consultation, there is no sin on them. (Surah Baqarah; V: 233)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
- Answered by
- Mufti Moosa Salie, Mufti Taahir Hansa
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