Parents’ Old Age: A Test for Children

By Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi, New Age Islam 26 September 2025 The phenomenon of aging is an inevitable part of human life. In Islamic thought, the old age of parents is regarded as a divine test (imtihan) for children, where the moral and spiritual responsibilities of sons and daughters are placed under trial. Qur’anic Perspective The Holy Qur’an emphasizes kindness and patience towards parents, particularly in their old age. Allah (SWT) states: “And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. If one of them 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 highlights that even the slightest expression of frustration towards parents is prohibited. Instead, children are commanded to honor them with dignity, compassion, and humility. Prophetic Teachings The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) declared: “Paradise lies beneath the feet of mothers.” (Sunan al-Nasa’i, Hadith 3104) This hadith signifies that service to one’s mother, especially in her old age, is a direct path to Divine pleasure. Similarly, Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “Treat your parents with such goodness that they may never be forced to pray against you.” (Nahj al-Balagha, Hikmah 399) These traditions illustrate that respect and service to parents is among the greatest acts of worship in Islam. Ethical Responsibility of Children As parents age, their physical and emotional needs increase. Weak eyesight, trembling hands, forgetfulness, or repetitive speech are not flaws but signs of the natural decline of life. Islam instructs children to: Overlook their shortcomings with patience. Support them physically and emotionally in their weakness. Provide companionship so they are not left in isolation. Pray for their forgiveness and mercy, as mentioned in the Qur’an: “My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was small.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:24) Thus, serving parents in their old age is not merely a social responsibility, but a sacred duty rooted in Islamic ethics. Legacy and True Inheritance According to Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi, the most valuable inheritance from parents is not wealth or property but their guidance, prayers, and blessings. A father’s final wish to his son often reflects a deep human truth: “As I held you when you were born, stand by me when I depart this world.” Supporting parents in their final years is an act of gratitude that reflects true loyalty to the sacrifices they made throughout their lives. Conclusion The old age of parents represents a divine trial for children—a test of gratitude, compassion, and moral integrity. Islamic teachings consider this service not only an ethical obligation but also a form of worship that leads to spiritual elevation. To honor parents in their weakness is to honor the Creator who entrusted us with this responsibility. --- Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi, Shia Scholar, Orator and Writer. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/parents-old-age-test-children/d/136985 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism