Eman Sakina

There is a timeless saying in many cultures, particularly rooted in Islamic tradition, that “Paradise lies at the feet of your mother.”

These profound words are more than a poetic sentiment — they carry deep ethical, spiritual, and emotional wisdom. In an age where materialism often overshadows values, this principle serves as a moral compass, reminding us of the sacredness of motherhood and the immense respect and gratitude we owe to our mothers.

In Islam, the statement “Paradise lies beneath the feet of mothers” originates from a well-known hadith (saying of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him). When a man asked the Prophet who deserved his utmost companionship and care, the Prophet replied, “Your mother.” He repeated it three times before finally saying, “Then your father.” This repetition wasn’t accidental—it was an emphasis on the irreplaceable value and sacrifice of mothers.

Other cultures, too, elevate the role of mothers. From Hinduism’s reverence of the “Divine Mother” to the Christian ideal of the Virgin Mary, motherhood is consistently portrayed as a divine, nurturing, and sacred role. In literature, folklore, and religious scripture, the mother is often the first teacher, the silent guardian, and the most selfless giver.

The journey of motherhood begins long before a child takes their first breath. From the discomforts of pregnancy to the pain of childbirth and the sleepless nights of infancy, a mother’s life is irrevocably altered. But her sacrifices do not end there. She nurtures, teaches, heals, and comforts. She celebrates our triumphs and consoles us in failure. She feeds us not just food, but also courage, dreams, and compassion.

In many homes, especially in developing societies, mothers often forgo their own needs to provide for their children. They work tirelessly, sometimes unnoticed, to ensure the success and happiness of their families. Their contributions are not always measured in economic terms but in love, service, and unwavering presence.

Being good to your mother is not just about meeting her material needs — it is about treating her with honor, compassion, and patience. This includes listening to her, seeking her advice, caring for her in old age, and never raising your voice or showing disrespect. In the Qur'an, Allah repeatedly enjoins believers to show kindness to their parents, especially the mother, right after the command to worship Him.

It is a lifelong duty. In youth, this means obedience and gratitude. In adulthood, it means respect, inclusion, and support. In her old age, it transforms into tender care and companionship. How we treat our mothers reflects our moral and spiritual maturity.

In modern times, with the rush of life and the pursuit of individual ambitions, many people neglect their mothers, sometimes unintentionally. Elderly women are increasingly isolated or placed in care homes where their emotional needs are left unmet. In many cases, they are forgotten by the very children they raised.

Neglecting one’s mother is not just a moral failure; in spiritual terms, it is a grave loss. The opportunity to serve one’s mother, especially in her later years, is a rare chance to earn divine reward. Prophet Muhammad emphasized that serving one's mother can open the gates of Paradise, not doing so can close them.

The phrase “Paradise lies under her feet” is a metaphor for something deeper than literal heaven. It implies that the path to spiritual success, peace, and fulfillment lies in humility and service to one’s mother. It means putting aside pride, resentment, and distractions to focus on honoring the one who gave us life.

It also symbolizes the idea that serving one’s mother is a path of purification. By lowering ourselves — metaphorically at her feet — we are raised in status before God. It is in humility, not arrogance, that true greatness lies.

Being good to your mother is not a cultural relic or an outdated value — it is a universal truth that applies across time and place. In a world seeking healing and peace, perhaps the simplest place to begin is at home, with a warm hug, a phone call, or an act of service for your mother.

If your mother is alive, cherish her, serve her, and honour her. If she has passed on, pray for her, give charity in her name, and live a life she would be proud of.

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In the soft wrinkles of her hands, in the quiet strength of her voice, and the memory of her sacrifices lies the key to both worldly contentment and eternal bliss.

Indeed, Paradise lies beneath her feet.