Respects of Elders in Islam:
Respect the Elderly:
Imam Tawus states it is a sunnah to respect four types of people:
- a scholar
- an elderly person
- a ruler
- and a father.
Give preference to the Elderly:
Enhance your life by Respecting the Elderly:
How to respect your elders:
- Give them a call.
- Visit them if you can.
- Use your manners.
- Ask them for their advice.
- Chat about their heritage and history.
- Tell them you appreciate them.
- Offer to help with daily tasks.
- Enjoy meals together.
Rights of elderly in Islam:
In Islam, respecting elders is not
just encouraged but is considered an essential moral and social responsibility.
The teachings of the Qur'an and the Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad, peace
be upon him) emphasize the importance of showing kindness, reverence, and
gratitude to those who are older, especially parents, grandparents, and senior
community members.
1. Qur'anic Teachings: The Qur'an commands believers to treat their parents with
utmost respect and care. In Surah Al-Isra (17:23), Allah says: "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 [near you], say not to
them 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word."
This verse highlights the importance of speaking kindly to elders, especially
parents, and avoiding any form of disrespect, even in moments of frustration.
2. The Example of Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH): The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) set a
remarkable example in his dealings with elders. He treated them with
compassion, often seeking their advice and showing humility. He also emphasized
the importance of serving and honoring one's parents, saying: "The best
of you are those who are best to their wives, and I am the best among you to my
wives." (Tirmidhi) This hadith highlights the principle of respect
extending to all elders, including women and family members.
3. Elderly People in Society: In Islam, the elderly are regarded as a valuable source of
wisdom and experience. They are often seen as the custodians of tradition,
values, and knowledge, and their status is elevated. The Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH) said: "He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young
ones and respect to our elderly." (Abu Dawood) This highlights the
reciprocal nature of respect within the community, where both the younger and
the older generations are encouraged to treat each other with care and
understanding.
4. Caring for the Elderly: Islam teaches that taking care of the elderly, especially
parents, is a form of worship. One of the most profound teachings is that
serving parents, particularly when they grow old, can lead to great rewards in
the Hereafter. The Qur'an mentions in Surah Luqman (31:14): "And We
have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him with
hardship upon hardship, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and
to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination."
5. Practical Ways to Show Respect:
- Listening attentively
to their advice and opinions.
- Helping them
in daily tasks, especially when they are unable to do things themselves.
- Avoiding harsh words
or actions and treating them with patience and understanding.
- Visiting them regularly, offering companionship and care, particularly in their
old age.
- Praying for their health and well-being, both during their lifetime and after their passing.
Respect for elders in Islam is a
cornerstone of the faith. It reflects gratitude, kindness, and the recognition
of the wisdom and experiences that the elderly possess. Through such respect,
Muslims are encouraged to maintain strong family bonds, contribute to a caring
society, and earn the pleasure of Allah.
Respecting elders is a fundamental
value in Islam, emphasized throughout the Quran and the sayings (Hadith) of the
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Islam places a strong emphasis on showing
kindness, care, and deference to those who are older, both within the family
and in the wider community. This respect is rooted in a sense of gratitude for
the wisdom, experience, and sacrifices that elders have made, and is seen as an
essential part of maintaining social harmony, compassion, and justice.
Ways to honor our elders:
- Spend time with them.
- Be polite.
- Ask for advice.
- Eat together.
- Discuss family heritage, history and tradition.
- Call them
- Tell them how much you appreciate and respect them.
- Visit senior living communities.
Here are some key points regarding
the respect of elders in Islam:
1.
Respect for Parents
One of the most central aspects of
respect for elders in Islam is the respect and obedience to parents,
particularly in their old age. The Quran speaks highly of honoring one's
parents and treating them with the utmost kindness.
- Quranic Guidance:
- Allah commands respect for parents in several verses.
One of the most important is in Surah Al-Isra (17:23), which says: "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 [near] you, say
not to them 'uff' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble
word."
- This verse highlights not only the command to respect
parents but also to avoid even the slightest sign of impatience or
disrespect (like saying "uff"), especially when they reach old
age.
- Hadith on Parents:
- Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “May he be humbled,
may he be humbled, may he be humbled.” It was asked, “Who, O Messenger of
Allah?” He replied, “He who reaches old age, and his parents are still
alive, and he does not enter Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim)
- This hadith emphasizes the high status of parents,
particularly when they are elderly. It indicates that one’s ultimate
reward is tied to how well they treat their parents.
2.
Honoring the Elderly in the Community
In Islam, the elderly are not only
honored in the family but also within the wider community. There are numerous
Hadiths that encourage showing respect to the elderly and taking care of them.
- The Importance of Elderly People:
- The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised that the elderly
should be shown respect and care because they are a source of wisdom. One
of his sayings is: “He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our
young and respect to our elderly.” (Sunan Abu Dawood)
- Compassionate Treatment:
- The Prophet (PBUH) also emphasized being gentle with
the elderly. A Hadith says: “The person who does not show respect to
our elders, nor have mercy on our young, is not one of us.” (Jami’
at-Tirmidhi) This means that respecting elders is integral to the
practice of Islam, influencing both personal and societal relationships.
3.
Social Responsibility Towards Elders
Islam stresses the importance of
helping and taking care of the elderly, especially when they are no longer able
to care for themselves. It is considered a noble and virtuous act to assist
elderly people in their needs.
- Providing for Elders:
- The concept of looking after the elderly is not just a
moral suggestion but an Islamic responsibility. For example, the care of
elders is similar to the responsibility towards orphans, where providing
for them is considered an act of charity (Sadaqah).
- In Islam, there is a strong emphasis on helping those
in need, including the elderly, by offering both material support and
emotional care.
4.
Wisdom and Experience of Elders
Islam teaches that older individuals
possess a wealth of knowledge and experience, and it is important to listen to
them and benefit from their wisdom.
- Seeking Advice from Elders:
- The elderly are often viewed as people who have gained
a greater understanding of life, having lived through many experiences.
Young people are encouraged to seek advice from their elders,
particularly in important matters of life, faith, and morality.
- Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself valued the wisdom of
the elderly. For instance, he often sought the counsel of older
companions in decision-making and leadership.
5.
Elders in Islam as a Source of Blessing
The elderly in Islam are seen as
bearers of blessings. Taking care of them is not only an act of kindness but
also brings spiritual reward. This is reflected in the teachings and practices
of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who demonstrated great care and reverence
toward older members of his community.
6.
Teaching Children to Respect Elders
Respecting elders is also instilled
in children from a young age in Islamic teachings. Children are taught not only
to honor their parents but also to respect older people in the community. This
is seen as foundational to building a respectful, compassionate, and
well-functioning society.
- Role of Parents and Teachers:
- Parents and educators are encouraged to set a good
example by treating the elderly with respect and guiding children on how
to do the same.
- Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is often cited as the ultimate
model of respect toward others, including elders. He led by example and
demonstrated how to honor the elderly through his actions.
Respect for elders is a fundamental
value in Islam, deeply rooted in both the Quran and the Hadith. This respect
encompasses everything from honoring parents, taking care of the elderly,
listening to their wisdom, to fostering a culture of kindness and consideration
for older individuals in society. Islam teaches that the elderly are a source
of blessing, experience, and wisdom, and respecting them is not only a moral
duty but also a path to spiritual reward.
Importance about Respects of Elders
in Islam:
Respecting elders is a fundamental
value in Islam, and it is deeply ingrained in the teachings of the Quran and
Hadith (the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him).
The importance of respecting elders in Islam can be understood from several
perspectives:
1.
A Commandment from Allah (God)
In the Quran, Allah commands believers
to show respect and kindness to their parents, especially when they reach old
age. The Quran says:
- "And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his
parents. His mother carried him with hardship upon hardship, and his
weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is
the [final] destination."
(Quran, 31:14)
- "And lower to them the wing of humility out of
mercy and say, 'My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when
I was] small.'"
(Quran, 17:24)
These verses emphasize the importance
of gratitude and humility towards those who have cared for us, especially as
they age. Honoring one's elders is a direct expression of honoring Allah’s
commandments.
2.
Following the Example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
demonstrated the utmost respect for elders throughout his life. He showed
kindness and reverence for older individuals, both in his family and in
society. The Prophet encouraged his followers to care for the elderly and to
treat them with dignity.
- He said: "He is not one of us who does not show
mercy to our young and respect to our elders." (Hadith, Sunan Abu
Dawood)
This Hadith makes it clear that
showing respect for elders is not only a cultural norm but also a key element
of being a good Muslim.
3.
A Source of Blessings
Respecting elders is seen as a means
of gaining blessings and rewards from Allah. By showing honor to the elderly,
Muslims strengthen their relationship with Allah and earn rewards for
fulfilling an important moral duty. Moreover, the elderly are often viewed as
repositories of wisdom, knowledge, and experience, which are valuable for the
younger generation.
4.
Strengthening Family and Community Ties
Respecting elders contributes to
maintaining strong family bonds and harmonious relationships within the
community. By respecting parents and other elderly individuals, Muslims build a
society based on compassion, unity, and mutual care. Islam encourages people to
fulfill their family responsibilities, and this includes providing emotional,
physical, and financial support to elderly parents and relatives if needed.
5.
A Reminder of the Cycle of Life
Elders in Islam are a reminder of
the passage of time and the eventual return to Allah. Treating them with
respect allows younger generations to appreciate the fleeting nature of life
and the blessings of good health. Islam teaches that aging is part of Allah’s
divine plan, and those who grow old should be treated with care, as they have
likely sacrificed much for the well-being of others.
6.
The Reward of Serving the Elderly
Islam holds the service of the
elderly in high regard. Acts such as helping the elderly with their daily
needs, providing them with comfort, and listening to their wisdom are all
considered acts of charity. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "Whoever
is kind to the poor, to his parents, and to his elders, Allah will be kind to
him." (Hadith, Sahih Al-Bukhari)
Respect for elders in Islam is not
merely a cultural practice, but a deeply spiritual and moral duty. It involves
not just showing kindness and gratitude but also honoring their contributions,
learning from their experiences, and offering them care and comfort in their
old age. By doing so, Muslims not only fulfill their religious duties but also
strengthen the bonds of family and community, ensuring a society based on
compassion, respect, and shared wisdom.
How to show respect in Islam:
- Respect the property of others. If something belongs to another person, do not steal it, or damage it.Respect the feelings of others.
- Respect their privacy.
- Treat everyone you meet with good manners to show that you recognize that they are as important as you.
- Respect yourself.
- Respect the feelings of others.
Characteristics about respects of
elders in Islam:
Respect for elders is highly
emphasized in Islam, as it is an integral part of the religion's teachings
regarding family, community, and social interactions. Here are key
characteristics and principles about respecting elders in Islam:
1.
Honoring Parents
- Central Commandment:
The respect and honor for parents, especially in their old age, is
emphasized in the Quran and Hadith. Allah commands children to treat their
parents with kindness, honor, and compassion, particularly when they reach
old age. The Quran says, “And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his
parents. His mother carried him with hardship upon hardship... So be
grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.”
(Quran 31:14)
- Avoiding Disrespect:
Islam prohibits even the slightest form of disrespect towards parents,
such as using words like "uff" (a sign of irritation). The
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of good treatment toward
one’s parents, especially in their later years.
2.
Reverence for Elders
- Islamic Etiquette:
Elders are to be shown respect in speech, actions, and attitude. This
includes greeting them with kindness, listening to them attentively, and
giving them the first right to things.
- Prophet Muhammad’s Example: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) set a profound example of
how to show respect to elders. He would stand up for elderly people, give
them the best of attention, and make sure they felt valued.
3.
Humility and Patience
- Fostering Patience:
Respecting elders also involves showing patience. Islam teaches that one
should be patient and gentle with the elderly, particularly when they may
require assistance, such as with daily tasks, or when they show signs of
weakness or forgetfulness.
- Showing Humility:
Elders are to be treated with humility. Islam teaches that youth should
not show arrogance or pride in front of those who are older. The Prophet
(PBUH) said: "He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our
young and does not respect our elderly" (Tirmidhi).
4.
Providing Care for the Elderly
- Support and Assistance: Caring for the elderly, especially family members, is
a noble act in Islam. Children and relatives are encouraged to take care
of the elderly, whether it is providing them with physical assistance or
emotional support.
- Financial Support:
Islam encourages providing for the elderly’s financial needs if necessary.
It is the responsibility of children or extended family to ensure the
elderly are not left to suffer financially.
5.
Prayers and Blessings
- Praying for Elders:
In Islam, praying for the well-being of one’s elders is a vital part of
showing respect. Prayers for parents, particularly after their passing,
are considered acts of righteousness.
- Seeking Blessings:
Elders are seen as bearers of wisdom, experience, and blessings. People
seek the blessings of elderly individuals, especially parents, as their
prayers are highly valued by Allah.
6.
Avoiding Harmful Speech
- Kind and Respectful Language: Islam teaches that elders should be addressed with
kind, soft, and respectful language. Harsh or disrespectful words towards
elders are prohibited. The Quran advises: “And lower to them the wing of
humility out of mercy and say, ‘My Lord, have mercy upon them as they
brought me up [when I was] small.’” (Quran 17:24)
- Consultation and Listening: Seeking the advice of elders, and listening carefully
to their experiences and wisdom, is a form of respect. It reflects a
willingness to honor their life experiences.
7.
Social Justice and Dignity
- Ensuring Dignity:
Respecting elders is also about ensuring their dignity within society.
Islam advocates for protecting the elderly from any form of exploitation,
humiliation, or negligence. The elderly should not be marginalized or left
in a state of neglect.
8.
Role of Elders in the Community
- Leadership and Guidance: Elders are often seen as sources of wisdom and
guidance within the community. Respecting them includes acknowledging
their role as leaders, advisors, and role models, particularly in
resolving conflicts or teaching younger generations.
9.
Seeking Forgiveness
- The Importance of Repentance: Respecting elders also extends to asking for
forgiveness if one has wronged them, especially parents. Repentance and
seeking forgiveness from parents or elders are seen as key actions for the
growth of a person’s faith.
Respecting elders in Islam is deeply
connected to the values of kindness, patience, humility, and honoring the
contributions of those who came before. It is an essential aspect of good
character and is strongly encouraged in both personal relationships and societal
structures. By honoring our elders, Muslims follow the teachings of the Quran
and the example set by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Significance about Respects of
elders:
Respecting elders holds deep
significance in various cultures and societies, both for personal development
and the well-being of communities. Here are key aspects of why showing respect
for elders is important:
1.
Cultural and Moral Value
- Preservation of Traditions: Respecting elders is often deeply embedded in cultural
values and moral teachings. Many societies consider elders as bearers of
wisdom, tradition, and knowledge, and honoring them is seen as a way of
preserving these qualities for future generations.
- Moral Responsibility:
In many philosophies and religions, such as Confucianism, Christianity,
and Hinduism, respecting elders is seen as a moral duty. It signifies
humility, gratitude, and reverence, reinforcing social cohesion.
2.
Strengthening Family Bonds
- Emotional Support:
Elders often play the role of advisors, nurturing family ties, and
providing emotional support. Respect for their experience and perspective
helps in maintaining close-knit relationships within families.
- Role Models for Future Generations: Elders are often viewed as role models. By respecting
them, younger generations learn the importance of patience, kindness, and
understanding, which can be passed down to their children and beyond.
3.
Wisdom and Experience
- Learning from Experience: Elders have lived through diverse experiences and have
accumulated knowledge and wisdom. Their insights often provide valuable
guidance for handling life's challenges and making decisions.
- Problem-Solving:
Their wealth of life experiences often includes navigating difficult
situations, which can be helpful to younger individuals seeking advice on
overcoming obstacles.
4.
Promoting Social Harmony
- Building Social Cohesion: When respect for elders is a norm, it fosters a sense
of unity and mutual respect within communities. It leads to more
empathetic relationships and a collective sense of responsibility toward
one another.
- Reducing Generational Gaps: Respecting elders can bridge the generational gap. It
fosters better communication between different age groups, promoting
understanding and reducing conflicts.
5.
Psychological and Emotional Health
- Elder’s Well-being:
Respect can help improve the emotional and mental well-being of elders,
who often face loneliness or neglect. Acknowledging their worth and
contributions helps combat isolation.
- Self-Respect and Confidence: The respect shown to elders often reflects in their
own self-perception, reinforcing their dignity and boosting their
self-worth. This can enhance their emotional stability and overall
happiness.
6.
A Positive Reflection of Society
- Cultural Continuity:
A society that respects its elders is often seen as compassionate and
culturally rich. It reflects a high level of empathy and respect for the
contributions that elders have made to the development of the community.
- Strengthens Values:
Respect for elders helps strengthen key social values, such as kindness,
honor, and respect for authority, which are essential for societal
progress and peace.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the significance of
respecting elders is multi-faceted, contributing to personal growth, familial
unity, cultural preservation, and societal well-being. It creates a cycle of
mutual respect that enriches lives and fosters healthy communities.