Author: NooreMadinah Network
In accordance with Islamic teachings, the status that is given after Almighty Allah and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is that of parents.
If one's parents are pleased with him or her, then that person has gained the Pleasure of Almighty Allah and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). The Pleasure of Almighty Allah and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) can never be gained if one's parents are displeased. It is the duty of every child to serve his or her parents and be kind to them. They can do this by not showing disrespect and causing pain to them. The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has stated that a disobedient child will not enter Jannat. To look at your parents with love will gain you the Sawaab of Hajj. It is also stated that "Jannat lies under the feet of your mother" and that the father is the "gate to Jannat". In a Hadith it is stated that a certain Sahabi was commanded by his parents to divorce his wife. When he relayed this message to Huzoor(sallallaahualaihiwasallam),theProphet (sallallaahualaihiwasallam)advised him to follow his parents advice.
It is an accepted fact that one may always have a wife and a child, but parents only come once. We should ponder over the fact that if it had not been for our parents, where would we be? A child can never repay or fulfill the right of his or her parents.
It must be noted that the status of the mother is very exalted. The Ulema have written that if the son is engaged in Nafil Salaah and if his mother calls to him, then he should adhere to her call and present himself before her.
After the demise of one's parents, be sure to visit their graves. Make Esaale Sawaab and distribute Khayraat and Sadaqa on their behalf. To show respect and kindness to the friends and family of your parents is also part of your duty towards them. Just as you respect your parents, the respect and obedience for your Peer-e-Tariqah and Ulema- e-Deen is also important. The Haqq of the Deeni Ustaad even supersedes that of parents. Thus, always respect your religious teacher. Also respect your father- and mother-in-law since they are like your parents. The woman should be more dutiful to her in-laws that to her own parents. By doing so she will gain benefits in this world and in the Hereafter.
