Introduction
The duty to parents is a fundamental ethical and religious principle frequently emphasized in the Qur’ān. The respect and kindness towards parents are stressed not only as a moral obligation but also as an act of worship. One of the key verses that highlight this duty can be found in Sūrah Al-Isra (Chapter 17), verses 24-25.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: الوَالِدَيْن
- Turkish: Ebeveynlere Saygı
The Arabic term “والِدَيْن” (walidayn) translates to “parents” in English and emphasizes both the father and mother. The corresponding Turkish term is “ebeveyn.”
Scriptural Foundation
The duty to parents is deeply rooted in the Qur’ānic teachings. One notable verse is from Sūrah Al-Isra (17:24-25):
<p>“Thy Lord hath decreed that ye shall not serve other than Him, and that ye shall be kind to your parents, whether one or both of them reach old age with thee; and ye must not say, ‘Fie!’ (Uff) nor grumble at them, but speak to them a generous speech. And lower to them the wing of humility out of compassion, and say, ‘O Lord! have compassion on them, as they brought me up when I was little!’”</p>
Significance in Islamic Practice
Ethical Imperative
The respect and kindness toward parents is not just a cultural norm but a divine mandate. The Qur’an places it immediately after the worship of Allah alone, emphasizing its critical importance.
Emotional and Social Bonds
The compassionate treatment of parents strengthens family bonds and societal harmony. It stresses treating parents with dignity, especially during their old age when they are most vulnerable.
Further Studies and Readings
For those interested in a deeper understanding of the duty to parents in Islam, the following books are recommended:
- “The Rights and Duties of Parents and Children in Islam” by Ibn Al-Qayyim
- “The Book of Filial Piety (Birr al-Walidayn)” by Ad-Daraqutni
- “Family Life in Islam” by Khurshid Ahmad
These texts provide extensive insights into the theological and practical dimensions of parental duties.
Takeaways
- Divine Command: The Qur’ān frequently calls for kindness and respect towards parents, placing it next to the worship of Allah.
- Compassion: Adequate care and tenderness, especially during their old age, are highly encouraged.
- Humility and Prayer: Lowering the ‘wing of humility’ towards parents and praying for their well-being are acts of compassion and worship.
Conclusion
The duty to parents is a cornerstone of Islamic ethics. By honoring and caring for them, Muslims fulfill a critical part of their spiritual and moral obligations, thereby promoting strong family and social structures.
By emphasizing this duty, Islam reinforces the importance of mutual respect, compassion, and the nurturing roles that parents play in one’s life, ensuring that these values are passed down through generations.
