17/11/2025
Rights of Parents When They Grow Old
By Sheikh Yasir Ad-Dawsary — Friday Sermon, Masjid Al-Haram.
As our parents grow older, their rights upon us increase, and our responsibility towards them becomes a sacred duty in the eyes of Allah. Sheikh Yasir Ad-Dawsary, in his Friday sermon from the blessed Masjid Al-Haram, reminded the Ummah that honoring our parents is not only an obligation—it is a pathway to Jannah and a sign of true faith.
Islam places extraordinary value on parents, especially in their old age when their strength declines and their needs rise. Allah Almighty says:
“Do not even say to them a word of irritation, nor repel them, but speak to them a noble word.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:23)
This verse alone reflects the immense status Allah has given to parents.
Key Rights and Responsibilities Towards Aging Parents
1. Treat Them with Excellence (Ihsan)
When parents age, their hearts become more sensitive and their bodies more fragile. Islam commands us to show gentleness, kindness, and exceptional care—never raising our voice, never showing annoyance, and always responding with love.
2. Serve Them with Patience and Gratitude
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“May he be disgraced, the one who finds his parents in their old age and does not enter Paradise by serving them.”
This shows that caring for elderly parents is a golden opportunity for salvation.
3. Stay Close to Them, Emotionally & Physically
As they age, parents often feel lonely. Islam encourages us to be present, to spend time with them, and to give them a sense of comfort, dignity, and security.
4. Fulfill Their Needs Before They Ask
A hallmark of true righteousness is anticipating their needs—whether emotional, financial, or physical—before they even express them.
5. Make Du’a for Them Continually
Allah teaches us the most beautiful du’a:
“My Lord, have mercy upon them as they raised me when I was small.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:24)
This du’a is a lifelong commitment—repeated with love and sincerity.
6. Never Forget Their Sacrifices
Our parents carried us, fed us, protected us, prayed for us, and endured sleepless nights for us.
7. Maintain Family Ties for Their Sake
Part of honoring parents is respecting their relatives, friends, and those they loved—visiting them, speaking kindly to them, and keeping their memories alive.
8. Continue Good Deeds on Their Behalf