The importance of parents in Islam is reflected in the Quran's command to show them kindness alongside worshipping Allah. Children are taught to treat their parents with respect, mercy and gratitude, while parents have a responsibility to guide their children's upbringing and religious learning.
What does the Quran say about parents?
The Quran calls for kindness to parents, respectful speech and mercy, especially when they reach old age. In surat Al Israa, Allah says:
“Your Lord has decreed that you shall not worship anyone except Him, and [He has enjoined] kindness to parents. Should they reach old age at your side — one of them or both — do not say to them, ‘Uff!’ And do not chide them, but speak to them noble words. Lower the wing of humility to them, out of mercy, and say, ‘My Lord! Have mercy on them, just as they reared me when I was [a] small [child]!’”
The same surah also states:
“Your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him and that you shall render utmost kindness to your parents.”
Surat Al-Ahqaf highlights the hardship a mother experiences in pregnancy and childbirth:
“And We have enjoined upon man, to his parents, good treatment. His mother carried him with hardship and gave birth to him with hardship.”
Together, these passages connect gratitude for parents' care with how children speak to them and treat them. Respect involves both words and behavior, including patience as parents grow older.
What does the hadith say about mothers and fathers?
The hadith below gives particular emphasis to good treatment of the mother and also names the father. It records a conversation between the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and a companion:
“The companion asked him, “Who is it that deserves my good treatment most?” He replied: “Your mother”. The Companion asked again. “Who’s next?” He again replied “Your mother”. The Companion asked for a third time: “Who’s next?” Again, Messenger of Allah replied: “Your mother”. Then for the fourth time, the Companion asked: “Who’s after that?” Messenger of Allah replied: “Your father.” (Narrated by al-Bukhari)
How should children treat their parents?
Children should treat their parents with respect, patience, mercy and gratitude. These qualities give practical meaning to the guidance in the Quran passages above:
- Speak respectfully. The passage from surat Al Israa warns against words of irritation and calls for noble speech.
- Show patience and mercy. Keep these qualities central when responding to parents, including in old age.
- Be grateful. Recognize the care and guidance your parents have given you.
- Pray for them. The same passage includes a prayer asking Allah to have mercy on parents.
These are everyday ways to express respect rather than leaving gratitude unspoken. For a related reflection on family relationships, read The Courage to Apologize.
What responsibilities do parents have towards children?
Parents also have duties: caring for their children, guiding their behavior and teaching them about Islam. This includes helping children learn about Salah and their religious responsibilities.
Religious learning is part of upbringing, alongside the care and guidance parents give as children grow. That guidance helps prepare children to take responsibility for their own behavior. For the wider family context, see our guides to marriage in Islam and family goals from an Islamic perspective.
Families seeking support with religious learning can explore Murouj Academy's one-to-one Islamic studies for kids and Quran classes for children. Parents can choose their child's teacher through free trial classes before committing.
Frequently asked questions
Is honoring parents only a responsibility for young children?
The Quran passage above specifically mentions parents reaching old age. Its guidance on respect, gratitude and mercy therefore remains relevant as children grow into adults.
Are both parents included in these teachings?
Yes. The Quran quotations call for kindness to parents, while the hadith gives special emphasis to the mother and also identifies the father as deserving good treatment.
What prayer for parents appears in the Quran passage?
The passage from surat Al Israa asks Allah to have mercy on parents, recalling how they cared for their child when young. It connects prayer for parents with gratitude for their care.
