GOODNESS TO PARENTS AND GENEROSITY TOWARDS OTHERS, BY RAHEEMAT YUSUF
Goodness to parents is a gateway to paradise, and generosity to others is a key to Allah's blessings
Islam deals a lot with moral virtues. A good Muslim must be morally upright, hence the need for extensive teachings on morality in Islam.
The Quran and the Hadith are the bedrock upon which this teaching is concentrated.
Goodness to Parents and Generosity
Islam teaches good morality. It wants Muslims to be good generally and to his parents in particular.
This is imperative considering the parent’s labour on the child. Surah Al Isra’ (chapter 17), verses 23 to 29, teach goodness to parents and generosity in general.
Translation:
23. And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him and that you be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honor.
24. And lower unto them the wing of submission and mercy, and say:
“My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was small.”
25. Your Lord knows best what is in your souls. If you are righteous, then indeed He is Most Forgiving to those who turn unto Him again and again.
26. And give to the kindred his due, and to the poor and the wayfarer, but do not squander wastefully.
27. Indeed, the squanderers are brothers of the devils, and the devil is ever ungrateful to his Lord.
28. And if you turn away from them to seek mercy from your Lord, which you hope for, then speak unto them a gentle word.
29. And let not your hand be tied to your neck, nor stretch it forth to its utmost reach, lest you sit down rebuked and exhausted.
These verses discuss:
- Honoring parents and treating them with kindness.
- Being humble and merciful towards them.
- Being righteous and seeking forgiveness.
- Giving to those in need and avoiding wastefulness.
- Being mindful of one’s behavior and speech
Goodness to parents is a gateway to Paradise, and generosity is a key to Allah’s blessings.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, ‘Paradise lies at the feet of your mother.
Show kindness, compassion, and respect to your parents, for they have shown you the same. Be generous with your time, resources, and love, for Allah loves those who are generous.
Remember, every naira, every smile, and every helping hand given to parents and those in need is a charity that multiplies in the sight of Allah.
Allah says in the Quran, Surah Al Ankabut (chapter 29 verse 8).
“And we have enjoined upon man goodness to parents…”
In conclusion, let us strive to be among those who bring joy to their parents and comfort to those around them.
May Allah bless us with the ability to show goodness and generosity, and may we be rewarded with His mercy and love. Ameen.
