Allah has elevated the status of mothers In Islam to the highest level, making their service and kindness a path to Jannah.

A mother’s journey begins long before her child is born—she carries her child in her womb for nine months, enduring pain, weakness, and discomfort, only to then dedicate her life to nurturing and raising them.

The Quran and Hadith emphasize the unmatched sacrifices of a mother and command us to repay them with love, respect, and kindness.

The Quranic Perspective on Mothers

Allah (swt) repeatedly reminds us in the Quran to honor our parents, especially our mothers:

“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.” (Quran 31:14)

This verse beautifully describes the physical and emotional hardships a mother endures, from pregnancy to breastfeeding and beyond. Islam acknowledges these struggles and makes gratitude toward mothers a divine command.

Another verse emphasizes:

“Worship God and join not any partners with Him, and be kind to your parents.” (Quran 4:36)

Placing kindness to parents immediately after the command to worship Allah highlights the immense status of parents—especially mothers—in Islam.

The Prophetic Teachings on Mothers

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) gave mothers an honored place in society. In a famous hadith, a man asked:

“O Messenger of Allah, who among people is most deserving of my good treatment?” The Prophet (ﷺ) replied, “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Your mother.” The man repeated the question a third time, and again, the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Your mother.” Only on the fourth time did the Prophet (ﷺ) say, “Then your father.” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

This hadith illustrates that a mother’s status is three times higher than that of a father due to her sacrifices and selfless love.

The Prophet (ﷺ) also said:

“Paradise lies at the feet of your mother.” (Sunan An-Nasa’i)

This means that serving, honoring, and pleasing one’s mother is a means to attain Jannah. It is not just about financial support but also about emotional care, respect, and prayers.

The Struggles of a Mother

A mother’s journey is filled with hardship and devotion. The Quran acknowledges her struggles:

“His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness.” (Quran 31:14)

The physical toll of pregnancy, the agony of childbirth, and the endless sleepless nights spent comforting and nurturing her child are all recognized in Islam. These sacrifices are why Allah (swt) commands children to repay their mothers with love and kindness.

Honoring Mothers in Daily Life

Serving one’s mother is a form of ‘ibadah (worship) and can be done in many ways:

• Obedience (within Islamic limits) – Fulfilling her wishes and listening to her advice.
• Speaking Kindly – Addressing her with respect, patience, and warmth.
• Providing for Her – Ensuring her financial, emotional, and physical well-being.
• Praying for Her – Asking Allah (swt) to bless her, forgive her sins, and grant her Jannah.
• Spending Time with Her – Showing love and care through quality time and attention.

A Balanced Approach: Honoring Both Parents

While Islam places special emphasis on mothers, it also commands us to honor and respect our fathers. Fathers are the protectors and providers of the family, and their role is crucial. The Quran reminds us:

“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.” (Quran 17:23)

In Islam, both parents deserve our utmost love and respect, especially in their old age when they need us the most.

Conclusion

A mother is a priceless blessing, a beacon of love, and a source of endless sacrifice. Her status in Islam is unparalleled, and honoring her is a means to earn Allah’s pleasure and attain Jannah.

Let us strive to serve our mothers with kindness, patience, and gratitude, ensuring their happiness in this life and the next.

May Allah (swt) grant us the ability to honor our mothers and parents as they deserve and bless all mothers with strength, patience, and Jannah. Ameen.