At our Islamic Secondary School, we are dedicated to nurturing values that not only foster academic success but also build strong character rooted in Islamic teachings. One of the most significant values in Islam is kindness to parents. The Qur’an and Hadith emphasize the importance of showing respect, love, and gratitude towards one’s parents, and it is our duty as Muslims to embody this in our daily lives.
The Importance of Kindness to Parents in Islam
Allah (SWT) reminds us in the Qur’an:
“And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. 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.”
(Surah Al-Isra, 17:23)
This verse underlines the critical role of parents and commands us to treat them with kindness and respect, even when it may become challenging, especially as they grow older.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also emphasized the importance of being good to one’s parents:
“Paradise lies at the feet of your mother.”
(Ibn Majah)
This Hadith reminds us of the high status mothers hold in Islam, and the great reward associated with treating them with compassion and care.
Another Hadith states:
“The pleasure of Allah is in the pleasure of the father, and the displeasure of Allah is in the displeasure of the father.”
(Tirmidhi)
Both parents deserve our love, and striving to earn their pleasure is a means of earning Allah’s (SWT) pleasure.
How Students Can Implement Kindness to Parents
As students, you can begin embedding kindness to your parents in your everyday actions by:
- Listening attentively: When your parents speak, listen with patience and show appreciation for their wisdom.
- Helping at home: Contribute to household chores without being asked. It’s a simple but impactful way to make life easier for your parents.
- Speaking respectfully: Always use gentle and kind words when addressing your parents, especially in moments of frustration or disagreement.
- Praying for them: Make it a habit to regularly include your parents in your daily prayers, asking Allah (SWT) to grant them good health, happiness, and blessings.
- Spending quality time: Make time to sit and talk with your parents, showing that you value their presence and cherish their company.
How Parents Can Encourage Kindness
Parents also play a vital role in teaching and encouraging this value by:
- Setting an example: Model kindness by showing respect and love towards your own parents and elders, demonstrating how family bonds are upheld in Islam.
- Open communication: Foster an environment of trust where your children feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and concerns, nurturing a respectful and caring relationship.
- Positive reinforcement: Praise your children when they show kindness or respect towards you or others, reinforcing this behavior through encouragement.
- Teach Islamic values: Regularly share stories from the Qur’an and Hadith that highlight the significance of good treatment to parents, embedding these lessons in everyday life.
Embedding Kindness in School Life
In school, we encourage students to reflect on the ways they interact with their parents and family. Through Islamic Studies, assemblies, and classroom discussions, we will continue to highlight the importance of honoring and respecting one’s parents, reinforcing this value in every aspect of their development.
Let us strive, as a community, to cultivate a culture of kindness, where we honor our parents, care for them, and follow the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In doing so, we not only fulfill our religious duties but also build strong, loving families that form the foundation of a peaceful and prosperous society.
May Allah (SWT) grant us the strength to be dutiful to our parents and the wisdom to raise children who are kind, respectful, and mindful of their responsibilities.