29. The Role of the Mother

The Quran states: “We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents: his mother bore him, in pain and in pain she gave birth to him, and his bearing and weaning takes thirty months. At length, when he reaches the age of full maturity and attains forty years, he says, ‘O my Lord! Help me to be grateful for Your favours which You have bestowed upon me, and upon both my parents, and to do good deeds that will please You. Grant me righteousness in my offspring. Truly, I have turned to You and, truly, I submit to You.’ We accept from such people the best of what they do, and We overlook their bad deeds. They will be among the people of Paradise—this is a true promise that has been given to them.’” (46:15-16)

Throughout human history, the role of woman as a mother has been profoundly essential and foundational. The mother acts as the unifying force in the human journey—the thread that binds together the pages of the book of life. Without her, the very fabric of human existence would begin to unravel.

For this reason, Islam places great emphasis on honouring women in their role as mothers and safeguarding their rights. Respecting a mother’s rights forms the basis of moral excellence within society. A community that protects the dignity and status of mothers becomes more refined, compassionate, and civilized. Conversely, a society that neglects or undermines this role gradually declines and can never truly attain the character of a humane and noble civilization.

In essence, it is the role of the mother that protects human society from descending into moral chaos.