Mothers represent an exemplary model of courage and are profoundly deserving of gratitude, a sentiment underscored globally as communities celebrate Mother’s Day today. Observed annually on the second Sunday of May in many countries, the occasion highlights the preeminent role mothers play in the upbringing, education, and moral development of children. The enduring courage of mothers warrants the highest praise, and profound greetings are extended equally to those balancing demanding careers with child-rearing and those performing the arduous, full-time labour of raising children at home.
Within the Islamic tradition, mothers are elevated to a remarkably distinguished position, where the preservation of their rights constitutes a foundational pillar of ethics. Abu Huraira reported that a man asked the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, “Who is most deserving of my good company?” The Prophet said, “Your mother.” The man asked, “Then who?” The Prophet said, “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet said, “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet said, “Your father.” (Source: Sahih al-Bukhari 5971, Sahih Muslim 2548).
This teaching signifies that a mother’s rights are three times greater than those of a father. Religious doctrine states that serving one’s mother and ensuring her contentment are paramount pathways to Paradise. Allah the Almighty highlights in the Holy Quran the immense physical toll of motherhood, specifically carrying a child in the womb, enduring the agonising pains of childbirth, and the relentless dedication required to raise a family, while issuing a divine command to treat mothers with the utmost kindness.
Despite these standards, contemporary mothers face significant challenges. Unsolicited commentary regarding physical transformations during pregnancy and judgmental remarks concerning a child’s development frequently provoke acute anxiety, compromising mental well-being. This burden is pronounced for single mothers, who often assume the entirety of financial expenses alone. Following marital separation, the failure of numerous fathers to provide support forces mothers to independently shoulder an immense weight. Furthermore, elderly mothers often suffer the agony of isolation when adult children become too consumed by busy schedules to visit or share affection.
While appreciation cannot be confined to a single date, Mother’s Day formally recognises maternal resilience. Every citizen shares a collective responsibility to cultivate a secure environment that guarantees the psychological and physical well-being of mothers everywhere.