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Our parents are meant to irritate us.

They also deliver the most incredible gift from Allah.

Primarily through our mothers, we receive consciousness and the ability to perceive our divine connection.

That is why the nurturing we receive in the womb, embodies the essence of Allah’s mercy, as highlighted by the Arabic word, "Rahma," derived from "Rahim," which means womb.

Rahim includes the concepts of tenderness, gentleness, love, and protection, all of which mothers exhibit during a baby's upbringing.

This underscores the deep connection between maternal care and divine mercy.

Our mothers make immense sacrifices throughout pregnancy, setting aside their comfort and careers to ensure our well-being.

They endure discomfort, overcome bad habits, and adjust their entire lives—all out of profound love for their unborn child.

This universal love transcends culture, religion, and race, reflecting the innate bond shared by humanity.

This is why the Qur’an places parental obedience alongside the worship of Allah, emphasizing the need to reciprocate this unconditional love and care with respect and loyalty.

Our parents shape us significantly, instilling traits that challenge and define us.

Their influence often molds within us traits that challenge us deeply—traits that we dislike in ourselves and those that hinder our spiritual journey toward the Divine. 

They also cast the brightest light upon these barriers, effectively revealing them to us.

In these moments of emotional upheaval, the wisdom of this divine commandment to honor and serve our parents becomes evident.

And through grappling with our strongest nafs, we are blessed with the most growth.

As Rumi famously says, “If you are irritated by every rub, how will your mirror be polished?”

This is part of the spiritual journey we must follow from generation to generation.

That is why Jannah is under our mother’s feet.

Realizing that our parents are also navigating their lives, complete with their fears and struggles, can deepen our understanding and compassion for them.

After all, they, too, are grappling with the traits and habits instilled in them by their parents.

Building a relationship with our parents doesn’t depend on grand gestures.

All it takes is some quality time and a genuine curiosity about them as another human being on their own journey towards Allah.

And from this, we enrich our lives, honor them, and bring immense blessings to everyone around us.