Respecting and Honoring Elders

Authored by: Dr. Muhammad Zia-ur-Rahman Azmi (Rahimahullah)
Chapter Title: Mercy for the Young and Respect for the Elderly
Arabic Title: باب الرحمة على الصغير وإكرام الكبير

Hadith on Respecting Elders and Showing Mercy to the Young​

❀ Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-As (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said:

"Whoever does not show mercy to our young ones and does not recognize the rights of our elders is not from us."
(Hasan: Narrated by Abu Dawood 4943, Ahmad 7073, al-Bukhari in al-Adab al-Mufrad 354, and al-Hakim 1/62)

❀ Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

"He is not from us who does not show mercy to our young ones and does not honor our elders."
(Hasan: Narrated by al-Bukhari in al-Adab al-Mufrad 353, Ibn Abi al-Dunya in Nafaqah ‘ala al-Iyal 186, and authenticated by al-Hakim 4/176)

❀ Sayyiduna Abu Umamah (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

"Whoever does not show mercy to our young ones and does not honor our elders is not from us."
(Hasan: Narrated by al-Bukhari in al-Adab al-Mufrad 356, and Ibn Abi al-Dunya in Nafaqah ‘ala al-Iyal 187)

Key Lessons from These Ahadith​

1. Compassion for the Young: It is obligatory upon Muslims to treat children and young individuals with kindness and mercy.
2. Honoring the Elders: Elders should be treated with respect, dignity, and reverence. Their rights must be acknowledged and fulfilled.
3. Foundation of Islamic Social Values: These teachings underline the importance of mutual respect and care, which are essential for a harmonious society.
4. Consequence of Neglect: Those who fail to embody these qualities of mercy and respect are warned that they are not aligned with the ethical and moral principles of the Muslim community.

These narrations emphasize the importance of fostering a culture of compassion and respect within the Muslim Ummah.