Shafaqna English- In Islam, elderly individuals are held in high regard and dignity. The emphasis on care and respect for the elderly is deeply ingrained in Islamic teachings, which highlight compassion, dignity, and social responsibility.
According to Shafaqna, the Qur’an and Hadith provide numerous references that underscore the importance of caring for the elderly, reflecting the broader Islamic values of compassion, mercy, and social justice. The elderly people are seen as a source of wisdom and experience, and their well-being is considered a communal responsibility.
One of the challenges for the elderly is their natural separation from the active work force in society due to their old age and weakness. They have to retire and stay home. A worst calamity for the elderly is for them not to find the love and respect they deserve in their family. The haughty young children might treat them with harshness or might ruthlessly cast them out of their own homes, and they will be left alone with a broken heart and no love and support.
Islam’s Teachings on Respecting the Elderly
There can be no doubt that Islam has given the elderly a special status, as there are texts that urge Muslims to respect and honor them. Islam considers them to have a right to be cared for in repayment for the sacrifices that they have made to ensure the prosperity of the generation that they raised and nurtured. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was a pioneer in emphasizing the importance of caring for the elderly, regardless of sex, color, or religion. He set a great example in practicing the principles he taught.
How the Prophet (PBUH) cared for the elderly?
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was a pioneer in emphasizing the importance of caring for the elderly, regardless of sex, color, or religion. He himself set a great example in practicing the principles he taught. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) says: “He is not of us who is not kind to our youngsters, and shows no respect to our elders…”.
Islam attaches so much importance to it that it is equated with glorifying the Almighty Allah. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said: “Of the glorification of Allah (SWT), certainly it is the honor shown to an old Muslim, the bearer of the Qur’an (by heart) without treachery therein and keeping aloof from it.”
From the above tradition, it follows that to honor an old man is to honor Islam; to honor a reciter of the Qur’an by heart (Hafiz) is to honor the Holy Qur’an; and to honor a just king is to honor justice. So, practically, honor is shown because of their traits and not their physical selves.
The Prophet (PBUH) here advises the young of the Muslim society, who will be tomorrow’s elderly, to honor the elderly. Continuous application of this Prophetic advice helps bridge the gap between generations and spreads an atmosphere of love and understanding between the young and the old. Consider here also the generalization in the Prophet’s (PBUH) words: “If a young man honors an elderly, “ the hadith requires honoring the elderly regardless of their color or religion.
Imam Sajjad (AS) states that elders should be respected
Imam Sajjad (AS) states that elders should be respected due to their greatness, age, and being Muslim. He has admonished us against any form of harsh treatment of the elders
Islam’s Teachings on Respecting Parents
While Islam emphasizes respect for all elders in society, children have a special responsibility towards their parents. The command to honor one’s parents is accompanied by the command to believe in Allah alone and the prohibition on associating others with Him in many verses.
For example, Allah Almighty says: “Worship Allah (SWT) and join none with God (in worship); and do good to parents.” (An-Nisaa’ 4:36)
“Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but God, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honor. And, out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say: “My Lord! bestow on them thy Mercy even as they cherished me in childhood.” (Al-Israa’ 17:23-24)
In these Verses/Ayahs, kindness towards parents is mentioned along with belief in One God. These two verses reflect the compassion, respect, and sense of responsibility that Islam requires the believers to have towards their parents.
The command to honor one’s parents is accompanied by the command to believe in Allah (SWT) alone and the prohibition on associating others with Him in many verses.
Rights of the Elderly in Islam
Islam places a high value on the dignity and well-being of the elderly, granting them specific rights. By recognizing and upholding these rights, Islamic teachings aim to ensure that the elderly are treated with the respect, care, and dignity they deserve. Here are some key rights of the elderly in Islam:
Right to Respect and Honor
The elderly people are to be treated with utmost respect and honor. This is rooted in both the Qur’an and Hadith.
Right to Care and Support
Islam mandates that the elderly should be cared for and supported, especially by their family members. This includes physical, emotional, and financial support. If the elderly do not have family, the responsibility falls on the community and society at large.
Right to Dignity and Compassion
Elderly people have the right to be treated with dignity and compassion. This includes being spoken to kindly and being treated with gentleness and patience. The Qur’an and Hadith both stress the importance of compassion towards the elderly.
Right to Social Inclusion
The elderly people have the right to be included in social activities and not be isolated. They should be given opportunities to participate in community life and be valued for their wisdom and experience.
Right to Legal Protection
Islamic Law (Sharia) provides legal protections for the elderly, ensuring their rights are upheld and they are not subjected to abuse or neglect. This includes the right to inheritance and the right to be cared for in their old age.
Right to Healthcare
The elderly people have the right to access healthcare and medical treatment. This is part of the broader Islamic principle of preserving life and ensuring the well-being of all individuals, regardless of age.
In the last few years, there has been a renewed interest internationally in the plight of the elderly. Many conferences and symposia have emphasized that often the elderly are not accorded the respect and dignity that every human being needs, even if they are provided basic maintenance. While compassion and respect towards the elderly an essential elements of Islamic conduct.
Sources: THE ISLAMIC SEMINARY OF AMERICA, About Islam, Researchgate, A Divine Perspective on Rights, Al-Islam, Erfan, Al-Shia