Introduction
In Islam, parents hold the highest status after Allah and His Messenger ﷺ. Caring for parents is not just good manners — it is an obligation. The Qur’an repeatedly mentions kindness to parents right after the command to worship Allah. Their sacrifices, love, and efforts in raising children make them deserving of profound respect and care.
Command from Allah
Allah says:
“And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him, and be good to parents.”
(Qur’an 17:23)
This shows that serving parents is a major act of worship.
Why Parents Have Special Rights
- They cared from birth to adulthood
- They sacrificed time, money, and comfort
- They guided and protected the child
- They are the means through which we enter this world
Rights of Parents in Islam
✅ Obedience
A Muslim must obey parents in all matters unless it involves disobedience to Allah. Even then, one must speak gently and respectfully.
✅ Respect and kind speech
Never shout, insult, or speak harshly. The Qur’an says:
“Do not even say ‘uff’ to them.”
Gentle behavior is obligatory.
✅ Financial Support
If parents need help, children must support them before spending on luxuries.
✅ Serve them in old age
Do not abandon elderly parents. Sitting with them, caring for their needs, and comforting them earns huge reward.
✅ Dua for them
Make dua regularly:
“My Lord, have mercy on them as they raised me when I was young.”
✅ Be grateful
Thanking parents is part of thanking Allah.
✅ Maintain ties after their death
- Make dua for them
- Give charity on their behalf
- Maintain relations with family and friends they loved
Rights of Mother
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Your mother” — three times — then “your father.”
(Sahih Bukhari)
Mothers deserve the highest honor because of pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and lifelong sacrifice.
Reward for Serving Parents
- Door to Jannah
- Removal of sins
- Increase in provisions & blessings
Neglecting parents is considered a major sin in Islam.
Conclusion
Parents are treasures. Treating them with love, patience, and respect is worship. Serving parents leads to Paradise, and hurting them leads to punishment. A believer must honor parents through life and after their death.