This study examines the concept of tadarruj (gradualism) embedded within the Hadith concerning the command of prayer for children, specifically referenced in Sunan Abu Dawud No. 417, and investigates its core relevance to contemporary positive parenting principles. Amidst the rising rates of domestic violence and educational malpractice contrasted with the global paradigm shift toward positive parenting, a persistent academic and practical gap remains. This issue is primarily driven by the literal, reductionist interpretation of the term adhribuhum (strike them) without contextualizing the underlying developmental stages and the spirit of gradualism. Utilizing a qualitative library research methodology, this study integrates takhrij al-hadith (authentication), classical and contemporary syarah (expository) analysis, and thematic-comparative evaluation. The findings reveal that the gradual pedagogical approach manifested in the Hadith progressing systematically from early parental modeling, active instruction at the age of seven, to strict disciplinary boundaries at the age of ten aligns harmoniously with core positive parenting pillars, emphasizing gradualism, non-violent discipline, emotional warmth, and compassionate engagement. Consequently, this research offers a substantial scholarly contribution by demonstrating that prophetic traditions intrinsically championed child protection, psychological readiness, and humanistic educational values long before modern developmental psychology formalized these frameworks.
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