A Simple Guide to ISLAM
Islamic Society
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Prophet of Islam regarded this as one of the major sin, next only
to it is especially when the parents have grown old that they need
great care and attention. Far from showing signs of displeasure,
the children must pray for them to God in these words of the
Qur’an: “My Lord and Sustainer! Be kind and have mercy on
them as they cherished, nurtured and sustained me in childhood.”
We must continue praying for them even after they have died.
Such prayer will be regarded as a continuous charity (
sadaqa jaria
)
as the Prophet has told us.
The children must be more kind and grateful to their mother
since she takes greater pains so far as the upbringing of the
children sare concerned. That is why the Prophet has told us
expressly that it is the mother who has the first claim on the
child’s care and attention.
Once a companion of the Prophet asked him as to whom he
should show kindness. The Prophet replied: “Your mother.” He
asked who came next and the Prophet again replied “Your
mother.” He asked the Prophet yet again who came next. The
Prophet replied, Your mother.” When the companion asked for
the fourth time, only then did the prophet reply, “Your father.”
One of the benefits of being good and kind to parents is that
goodness and kindness is passed on from one generation to
another. As the Prophet has said:
“Be good and kind to your parents and your children
will be good and kind to you.”
