Quranic Verses on the Obligation of Respecting Parents
Allah, the Almighty, has commanded His servants to honor and treat their parents with kindness, establishing this as a mandatory duty. He states in the Quran: (“And worship Allah and do not associate anything with Him, and to parents, do good.”) In this verse, Allah emphasizes that the act of worshiping Him alone, without associating partners with Him, is coupled with the imperative to treat one’s parents well.
Quranic Verse on Honoring Parents in Their Old Age
Respecting and being kind to one’s parents is an inherent right that remains essential throughout their lives. However, this duty becomes even more critical as they age. At this stage, parents require additional care, respect, and appreciation. Allah says: (“And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], ‘uff,’ and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.”)
This verse underscores that those who find their parents in advanced age must approach them with patience and decency, refraining from even the slightest word that may cause them distress. Instead, they should be gentle and choose kind words when conversing with them.
Quranic Verse on Honoring Parents Regardless of Their Beliefs
Islam emphasizes the importance of respecting one’s parents, irrespective of their beliefs, including if they are not adherents of Islam. Allah states: (“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. But if they endeavor to make you associate with Me that of which you have no knowledge, do not obey them. To Me is your return, and I will inform you about what you used to do.”)
Indeed, parents hold the primary role in their children’s existence, and the wisdom behind Islam’s emphasis on treating parents with respect may serve to soften their hearts towards embracing Islam. Nonetheless, if parents demand something contrary to Islamic teachings, obedience to them in this regard is not permissible. There is no obedience to the creation when it involves disobedience to the Creator, and one must not compromise their faith, even at the request of their parents.
Quranic Verse on Praying for Parents
There are numerous ways to show kindness and respect to one’s parents, and one of the most significant gifts children can offer is the act of praying for their parents’ forgiveness and mercy. This practice is beautifully illustrated by Prophet Noah (peace be upon him) when he prayed: (“My Lord, forgive me and my parents and him who enters my home believing and the believers, and do not increase the wrongdoers except in destruction.”)
Quranic Verse Highlighting the Importance of Mothers
Allah has specifically highlighted the necessity of honoring and obeying mothers in various texts, such as: (“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him with hardship and gave birth to him with hardship, and his gestation and weaning [period] is thirty months. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.”)
This verse emphasizes the particular recommendation given by Allah regarding mothers, acknowledging the struggles and challenges they endure throughout pregnancy, childbirth, nursing, and raising their children until reaching maturity.