Of all the people in our lives, none have a greater right over us after Allah and His Messenger ﷺ than our parents. Islam places kindness to parents right next to worshipping Allah. This article is for children, teenagers and adults – because no matter how old we are, we are always someone's child.
What the Quran Says
Allah says: "And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him, and that you be kind to parents. 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. And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, 'My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up (when I was) small.'" (Surah Al-Isra, 17:23–24)
Even a small word of annoyance – "uff" – is not allowed. That shows how gentle we must be.
Your Mother, Your Mother, Your Mother
A man asked the Prophet ﷺ: "Who among people is most deserving of my good companionship?" He said: "Your mother." The man asked: "Then who?" He said: "Your mother." "Then who?" "Your mother." "Then who?" "Then your father." (Sahih al-Bukhari 5971, Sahih Muslim 2548)
A Deed Beloved to Allah
'Abdullah ibn Mas'ud asked the Prophet ﷺ which deed is most beloved to Allah. He said: "Prayer at its proper time." Then which? "Kindness to parents." (Sahih al-Bukhari 527, Sahih Muslim 85)
Simple Ways to Honour Parents – for Kids
- Say "Assalamu 'alaykum" with a smile when you see them.
- Listen the first time they ask you to do something.
- Help without being asked – set the table, tidy your room.
- Never shout or roll your eyes.
- Make du'a for them every day.
For Teenagers and Adults
- Call or visit regularly – especially if you live far away.
- Be patient with them as they get older, just as they were patient with you.
- Ask their advice and include them in decisions.
- Support them financially if they need it.
- If they have passed away, make du'a for them, give charity on their behalf and keep good ties with their friends and relatives.
The Du'a for Parents
رَبِّ ارْحَمْهُمَا كَمَا رَبَّيَانِي صَغِيرًا
Rabbir-hamhuma kama rabbayani saghira – "My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was small." (17:24)
A Gift That Lasts
One of the greatest gifts a child can give their parents is to learn and live by the Quran. Tehfiz-ul-Quran Academy offers one-on-one online Quran classes for children and adults. Book a 3-day free trial.