Parents hold a special and honored place in Islam. They are the first caregivers, teachers, and guides in a person’s life. From birth to adulthood, they sacrifice their time, energy, and resources to nurture and support their children. Islam strongly emphasizes on fulfilling the rights of parents with love, respect, and kindness at all times. Regardless of their age or health, children are expected to show gratitude and obedience to their parents, as it is considered an act of worship that brings immense rewards.
The Quran repeatedly commands believers to honor their parents. One of the most well-known verses regarding this is:
وَوَصَّيْنَا ٱلْإِنسَـٰنَ بِوَٰلِدَيْهِ حَمَلَتْهُ أُمُّهُۥ وَهْنًا عَلَىٰ وَهْنٍۢ وَفِصَـٰلُهُۥ فِى عَامَيْنِ أَنِ ٱشْكُرْ لِى وَلِوَٰلِدَيْكَ إِلَىَّ ٱلْمَصِيرُ
“And We have commanded people to ˹honour˺ their parents. Their mothers bore them through hardship upon hardship, and their weaning takes two years. So be grateful to Me and your parents. To Me is the final return.” (Quran 31:14)
This verse highlights the sacrifices parents, especially mothers, make for their children and reminds us that being grateful to them is linked to being grateful to Allah. Similarly, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) repeatedly stressed the importance of parents. When asked about who deserves the most kindness and companionship, he replied:
“Your mother.” The companion asked, “Then who?” The Prophet said, “Your mother.” He asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet replied, “Your mother.” The companion asked once more, “Then who?” The Prophet finally said, “Your father.” (Bukhari & Muslim).
This hadith shows the high status of mothers due to their unmatched sacrifices, followed closely by fathers, who play a vital role in guiding and supporting the family.
In Islam, obeying and caring for parents is not just a moral duty but a religious obligation. Whether they are young or old, alive or have passed away, children must always respect, serve, and pray for them. Being kind to parents is a path to Jannah (Paradise), while neglecting or mistreating them is considered one of the greatest sins.
Rights of Parents in Islam
In Islam, parents hold heavy rights, respect and honor. Their sacrifices, love, and care shape a person’s life. Allah has given them a special status in both this world and the Hereafter. Among them, mothers are given even greater recognition due to the hardships they endure, from pregnancy and childbirth to raising and nurturing their children.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) beautifully described the status of mothers when he said:
“Paradise lies under the feet of mothers.” (Ibn Majah)
This hadith emphasizes that serving and respecting one’s mother is a means of attaining Jannah (Paradise). Mothers go through immense pain and effort to bring a child into the world, and Islam acknowledges their sacrifices by placing them in such a high position. In another well-known hadith, when a companion asked the Prophet who deserved the most kindness, he replied, “Your mother” three times before mentioning “your father” on the fourth. (Bukhari & Muslim) This highlights the deep level of care and respect children should have for their mothers.
While mothers receive special recognition, fathers also play a vital role in the family. In Islam, the father is responsible for providing, protecting, and guiding his children. He works hard to ensure that the family’s needs are met and plays a key role in their upbringing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“A father can give his child nothing better than a good education.” (Tirmidhi)
This shows that a father’s duty is not only financial but also includes moral and religious guidance. A righteous father sets an example for his children and ensures they grow up with strong Islamic values.
Quranic Verses About the Rights of Parents In Islam
Quran repeatedly highlights the importance of respecting parents, treating them with kindness, and showing gratitude for their sacrifices. Allah commands believers to respect and obey their parents as an essential part of their faith. Several Quranic verses highlight this duty, reminding us that being good to our parents is closely linked to worshiping Allah.
One of the most well-known verses on this subject is from Surah Al-Isra (17:23-24):
“For your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And honour your parents. If one or both of them reach old age in your care, never say to them ˹even˺ ‘ugh,’ nor yell at them. Rather, address them respectfully. And be humble with them out of mercy, and pray, “My Lord! Be merciful to them as they raised me when I was young.””
This verse clearly states that after worshiping Allah, the next most important duty is showing kindness to parents. It strictly prohibits even the smallest expression of frustration, such as saying “uff” to them. Instead, Allah commands us to speak to them with respect, treat them with humility, and pray for their mercy, especially in their old age when they need care and support.
Another powerful reminder comes from Surah Luqman (31:14):
“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.” (Quran 31:14)
This verse highlights the sacrifices of mothers, who endure great hardship during pregnancy and early childhood care. It also connects gratitude to parents with gratitude to Allah, showing that both are essential. Being thankful to our parents for their love and sacrifices is an act of worship that brings us closer to Allah.
Hadith on the Importance of Parents Rights
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that respecting and caring for parents is one of the most important duties in Islam. He highlights that being good to parents brings great rewards, while disobeying or mistreating them is a major sin.
One of the most famous hadiths on this topic is when a companion asked the Prophet (peace be upon him):
“Which deed is most beloved to Allah?”
The Prophet replied: “Prayer at its proper time.”
The companion then asked: “And what next?”
The Prophet said: “Being good to parents.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)
This hadith shows that after worshiping Allah, the next most important act is treating parents with kindness and respect.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) also mentioned that honoring parents leads to blessings in life and ease in the Hereafter. He said:
“Whoever would like his rizq (provision) to be abundant and his lifespan to be extended, let him uphold his ties of kinship.” (Bukhari 2067)
This means that taking care of parents and family brings barakah (blessings) in one’s life.
The Consequences of Disobeying Parents
Just as being good to parents brings rewards, being disrespectful to them is considered a major sin. Prophet (peace be upon him) warned:
“Shall I not tell you the greatest of the major sins?”
The companions said: “Yes, O Messenger of Allah.”
He said: “Associating partners with Allah and disobedience to parents.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
This hadith shows that disobeying parents is one of the biggest sins in Islam, placed right after shirk (associating partners with Allah).
Islam teaches that how we treat our parents affects our own lives. If we are good to them, Allah will bless us. But if we are disrespectful, we may face hardships and regret.
By honoring our parents, we not only earn Allah’s pleasure but also create a loving and peaceful family. This kindness will also return to us when we grow old, as our children will treat us the same way we treated our parents.
Key Rights of Parents in Islam
Islam teaches that parents have many rights over their children, and fulfilling these rights is a way to earn Allah’s blessings. Being good to parents is not just about respect; it also includes care, support, and continuous prayers for them. Below are the key rights of parents in Islam:
1. Obedience and Respect
Children are required to listen to and respect their parents in all matters, as long as it does not involve disobedience to Allah. The Quran commands:
“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents.” (Quran 29:8)
This means that children should value their parents’ advice, speak to them politely, and never raise their voice in anger.
2. Kindness and Care
Parents spend their lives looking after their children, and in return, Islam instructs children to treat them with kindness. This includes speaking to them gently, helping them with daily tasks, and being patient with them, especially in old age. The Quran says:
“And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy.” (Quran 17:24)
This verse reminds us to always be gentle and compassionate towards our parents.
3. Financial Support
If parents are in need, it is the duty of the children to take care of them financially. Just as parents provide for their children when they are young, children should support their parents when they grow old. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“You and your wealth belong to your father.” (Ibn Majah)
This means that helping parents financially is not charity but a duty.
4. Making Dua for Them
One of the greatest gifts children can give their parents is sincere supplication. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that a righteous child’s dua continues to benefit the parents even after their passing. A beautiful dua from the Quran for parents is:
“My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was small.” (Quran 17:24)
5. Maintaining Ties After Their Death
Even after parents pass away, their children can still honor them. This can be done by maintaining family ties, giving charity in their name, and making dua for their forgiveness. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The best act of righteousness is for a man to keep good relations with his father’s friends after his father has passed away.” (Muslim)
By fulfilling these rights, children can earn Allah’s mercy and blessings, ensuring a strong bond of love and respect within the family.
The Consequences of Disobeying Parents
Islam strongly warns against disobeying or mistreating parents. Disrespecting them is considered one of the greatest sins, and it brings severe consequences in both this life and the Hereafter. Just as being kind to parents brings blessings, neglecting or hurting them can lead to hardships and regret.
Disobedience to Parents is a Major Sin
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) listed disobedience to parents among the greatest sins. He said:
“Shall I not tell you the greatest of the major sins?”
The companions replied: “Yes, O Messenger of Allah.”
He said: “Associating partners with Allah and disobedience to parents.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
This hadith shows that being disrespectful to parents is ranked alongside shirk (associating partners with Allah), which is the worst sin in Islam. This highlights the seriousness of treating parents poorly.
The Curse of Parents
Another hadith warns about the dangers of making parents upset. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The pleasure of Allah is in the pleasure of the father, and the displeasure of Allah is in the displeasure of the father.” (Tirmidhi)
This means that when parents are happy with their children, Allah is pleased with them, but if they are hurt or angered, it can lead to Allah’s anger.
Real-Life Consequences of Mistreating Parents
Neglecting or disrespecting parents can have negative effects in both worldly life and the Hereafter:
- Lack of Barakah (Blessings): A person who mistreats their parents may find that their life is full of difficulties, whether in health, wealth, or relationships.
- Regret After Their Passing: Many people realize too late that they should have treated their parents better. Once parents pass away, there is no way to make up for the lost time.
- Bad Treatment from One’s Own Children: The way a person treats their parents often comes back to them. If they are disrespectful, their own children may treat them the same way when they grow old.
Islam teaches that no matter what, children should always show love and patience towards their parents. Even if parents make mistakes, it is still important to be respectful and seek Allah’s reward through kindness. By honoring parents, we gain Allah’s mercy, and by neglecting them, we risk losing His blessings.
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How to Fulfill the Rights of Parents in Daily Life according to Islam
Fulfilling the rights of parents is not just about obeying them; it also means showing love, care, and respect in everyday life. In today’s fast-paced world, balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities can be challenging, but Islam teaches that serving parents should always remain a priority. Here are some practical ways to fulfill their rights daily:
1. Show Love and Care Through Small Actions
Caring for parents doesn’t always require grand gestures—small, thoughtful actions make a big difference.
- Greet them with warmth and a smile.
- Spend quality time with them, even if it’s just a few minutes daily.
- Help them with daily tasks, such as household chores or errands.
- Listen to their stories, concerns, and advice with patience and interest.
2. Speak to Them with Kindness and Respect
The way we talk to our parents matters. Islam teaches that we should always use respectful and gentle words, even if we disagree with them. The Quran says:
“And do not say to them [so much as], ‘uff,’ and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.” (Quran 17:23)
This means never using harsh words, raising your voice, or being rude to them. Instead, speaking with kindness and understanding strengthens the parent-child bond.
3. Support Them Financially and Emotionally
Parents spend their lives taking care of their children, and as they grow older, they may need financial or emotional support. Islam encourages children to help their parents when needed. This could mean:
- Providing for their needs if they are struggling financially.
- Taking them to medical check-ups and ensuring they are in good health.
- Comforting them emotionally by being present and available for them.
4. Make Dua for Them Regularly
One of the best ways to honor parents is by praying for them. A beautiful dua from the Quran teaches us to say:
“My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was small.” (Quran 17:24)
Praying for their health, happiness, and forgiveness—even after they pass away—is a great way to continue showing gratitude and love.
5. Balance Modern Responsibilities with Islamic Duties
Many people today have busy schedules, but Islam teaches that no matter how demanding life becomes, parents should never be neglected.
- If you live far away, call or video chat with them regularly.
- Visit them whenever possible and make them feel valued.
- If married, balance time between your spouse, children, and parents without neglecting anyone’s rights.
6. Encourage a Strong Family Relationship
A healthy family environment benefits both parents and children. Encourage love, kindness, and respect among siblings and family members. Teach younger generations the importance of honoring parents by setting a good example yourself.
By making these simple efforts daily, we can fulfill the rights of our parents and earn Allah’s blessings. Showing kindness and care towards them is not just an Islamic duty—it’s a way to bring peace, love, and happiness into our own lives as well.
Conclusion
Parents hold a special place in Islam, and their rights must be fulfilled with love, respect, and care. Islam teaches that being kind and obedient to parents is one of the greatest acts of worship, bringing immense rewards in both this life and the Hereafter. The Quran and Hadith emphasize the importance of respecting, supporting, and making dua for them, reminding us that their happiness leads to Allah’s pleasure.
Respecting parents not only strengthens family bonds but also brings barakah (blessings) in life. Neglecting them, on the other hand, is a major sin with serious consequences. Even in today’s busy world, small acts of kindness—such as speaking gently, spending time with them, and helping them with their needs—can make a big difference.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) beautifully summarized the importance of parents when he said:
“The pleasure of Allah is in the pleasure of the parents, and the displeasure of Allah is in the displeasure of the parents.” (Tirmidhi)
Let us strive to fulfill our duties towards our parents with sincerity, patience, and love. By doing so, we not only gain their prayers and blessings but also secure a place in Jannah, as Islam teaches that “Paradise lies under the feet of mothers.” (Ahmad, Nasai)