What does Islam say about Mother’s Day?

Story by  Eman Sakina | Posted by  Aasha Khosa | Date 10-05-2024
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Representational image

 

Eman Sakina

Mother's Day is a special occasion celebrated in many cultures around the world to honour mothers and motherhood. In Islam, while there is not a specific day designated for celebrating mothers, the teachings of the Quran and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasize the importance of honoring and respecting mothers every day. Here is how you can celebrate Mother's Day in Islam:

Express Gratitude and Appreciation:

In Islam, expressing gratitude and appreciation to one's mother is not limited to a specific day; it is an ongoing duty. The Quran instructs:

"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)

Take the opportunity on Mother's Day to express your love, gratitude, and appreciation to your mother for all she has done for you.

Spend Quality Time:

On Mother's Day, try to spend quality time with your mother. Whether it is through a heartfelt conversation, sharing a meal, or simply being in her company, spending time with your mother is a meaningful way to honor her.

Prophet Muhammad said, "Paradise lies beneath the feet of your mother." (Ahmad, Nasai)

This hadith emphasizes the importance of serving, obeying, and spending time with one's mother.

Perform Acts of Kindness:

Use the Mother's Day as an opportunity to show your kindness to your mother. Whether it is helping with household chores, running errands, or simply offering a helping hand, these gestures show your love and appreciation for her.

Prophet Muhammad said, "A man came to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and said, 'O Messenger of Allah! I want to go on a military expedition and I have come to consult you.' He asked, 'Do you have a mother?' The man replied in the affirmative. The Prophet said, 'Stay with her, for Paradise is beneath her feet.'" (Al-Nasa'i)

Pray for Her:

On Mother's Day and every day, make dua (supplication) for your mother. Pray for her health, happiness, and well-being. Ask Allah to bless her and reward her for all her sacrifices.

Give Gifts with Thought and Meaning:

While giving gifts on Mother's Day is a common practice, in Islam, the value of a gift lies more in its thoughtfulness than its material worth. Consider giving your mother a gift that holds sentimental value or that caters to her interests and preferences.

Even when children grow up and start their own families, they are required to maintain close ties with their mothers and take care of them.

This incident is narrated by Abdullah ibn Amr: A man came to the Prophet Muhammad and said, "O Messenger of Allah! I have committed a serious sin. Is there any way to repent?" He said, "Do you have a mother?" The man said, "No." The Prophet asked, "Do you have a maternal aunt?" The man said, "Yes." The Prophet said, "Then be good and dutiful to her." (Tirmidhi)

This hadith illustrates that even if one's mother has passed away, being kind and dutiful to maternal relatives is highly rewarded in Islam.

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In Islam, every day is an opportunity to honour and celebrate mothers. While Mother's Day provides a designated occasion to express love and gratitude, remember to honor, and cherish your mother every day of the year. By following the teachings of Islam and treating your mother with love, respect, and kindness, you can celebrate Mother's Day in a way that is both meaningful and by your faith.