As the world is becoming more modernized, traditional values and morals are often getting lost in the fast-paced lifestyle. One of the most important values you should never forget is respect and care for the elderly.
Islam places great importance on treating the elderly and encourages Muslims to show kindness and respect to them. In this guide, we will explore the Islamic teachings on how to treat the elderly and how to apply them in our daily lives as modern kids.
The Importance Of The Elderly In Islam
Islam recognizes the elderly as a valuable asset to society. They are viewed as a source of wisdom, experience, and guidance. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "He is not of us who does not have mercy on young children, nor honor the elderly" (Al-Tirmidhi).
The Qur'an also states, "And your Lord has decreed that you worship not except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], "uff, "1 and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word".(Surah Al-Isra:23) This verse emphasizes the importance of showing respect and kindness to the elderly.
Rights Of The Elderly In Islam
Islam places a strong emphasis on the respect and care of the elderly. The rights of the elderly in Islam include the following:
● Respect And Honor:
Elders are to be shown respect and honor by the young and by society as a whole. They are to be treated with kindness, patience, and compassion.
● Financial Support:
Elders have the right to financial support from their children and other family members. It includes providing for their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and medical care.
● Companionship:
Elders have the right to companionship and not to be neglected or left alone. They should be visited regularly and included in family gatherings and social events.
● Protection:
Elders have the right to protection from harm, abuse, or neglect. They should be treated with dignity, not violence or exploitation.
● Right To Share In Inheritance:
Elders have the right to share in the inheritance of their family members. Islamic law provides specific guidelines for the distribution of inheritance among family members.
● Right To Live In Peace:
Elders have the right to live in peace, respect, and tranquility; their opinions should be considered and followed. They should have the right to make their own decisions and not be forced to do anything against their will.
How To Show Respect And Kindness To The Elderly?
Islam encourages Muslims to show respect and kindness to the elderly in various ways. Some of the ways include:
- Speaking kindly and politely to them
- Offering help and assistance when they need it
- Listening to their advice and stories
- Showing gratitude for their contributions to society
- Being patient with them, especially if they are slow or forgetful
- Showing compassion and empathy toward them
- Visiting them regularly
- Respecting their wishes and preferences
- Giving them priority and precedence over others
- Being attentive to their needs
How To Apply Islamic Teachings In Our Daily Lives?
It is important to remember that respect and care for the elderly is not just a one-time act but a continuous effort. Here are a few ways to apply Islamic teachings on the treatment of the elderly in our daily lives:
- Showing respect and kindness to our grandparents and other elderly relatives
- Volunteering at a retirement home or nursing home
- Helping an elderly neighbor with their groceries or other errands
- Offering to teach an elderly person how to use technology, such as a phone or computer
- Encouraging our children to show respect and kindness to the elderly
- Practicing patience and understanding with the elderly
- Being mindful of the way we speak to and about the elderly
- Practicing good manners and etiquette when interacting with the elderly
- Being attentive to the needs and preferences of the elderly
The Role Of The Community In Caring For The Elderly
In addition to individual efforts, the community also plays an important role in caring for the elderly. The Islamic community is encouraged to support and care for the elderly in various ways, such as:
- Establishing retirement homes or nursing homes for the elderly
- Providing financial and material support for the elderly
- Organizing social events and activities for the elderly to keep them engaged and connected with the community
- Providing healthcare and medical services for the elderly
- Offering educational and training programs for the elderly to help them stay active and engaged
The Reward For Caring For The Elderly In Islam
Islam encourages care and respect for the elderly not only because it is the right thing to do but also because of the rewards that come with it. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,
"The one who looks after a widow or a poor person is like a Mujahid (warrior) who fights for Allah's Cause, or like him who performs prayers all the night and fasts all the day." Sahih al-Bukhari Volume 7, Book 64, Number 266
This Hadith highlights the importance of caring for the elderly in Islam and the rewards that come with it. Additionally, the Qur'an states: "And whoever is kind to the family of the elderly, he is indeed doing an act of kindness to Me" (Qur'an, Surah Al-Isra 17:24)
Conclusion
Islam places great importance on treating the elderly and encourages Muslims to show kindness and respect to them. In this guide, we have explored the Islamic teachings on how to treat the elderly, how to apply them in our daily lives as modern kids, and the role of the community in caring for them.
Remember, showing respect and kindness to the elderly is not just a one-time act but a continuous effort. Applying these teachings in our daily lives can create a society where the elderly are valued, respected, and well taken care of.
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