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Q&A · General

How should a Muslim treat their parents?

Kindness to parents (birr al-walidayn) is one of the greatest deeds in Islam, mentioned by Allah immediately after the command to worship Him alone: 'Your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him, and that you be dutiful to your parents.' When a man asked the Prophet ﷺ which deed is most beloved to Allah, he said prayer at its proper time, then kindness to parents, then striving in Allah's cause. This obligation of respect, gentleness, and service remains even when parents are non-Muslim, though one never obeys them in disobedience to Allah. Allah pairs gratitude to Him with gratitude to one's parents (Quran 31:14).

Evidence — the daleel
Quran 17:23Quran 17:24Sahih al-Bukhari 527 ṢaḥīḥSahih Muslim 85 ṢaḥīḥQuran 31:14
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Informational, not a personal fatwa. Consult a qualified scholar for rulings on your situation.

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