Question

I had a question about converting to Islam. I believe and it is in Islam that you should respect your parents, however if one was to convert to Islam is it not a sin that you have gone against your parents wishes? Some parents can disagree yet accept, whereas others may disown. I would appreciate it if you could send me some information about this because I'm very confused.

Answer

Thank you very much for your question on respecting parents while observing Islam.

Islam is a religion of Mercy, Peace and Blessing. Its teachings emphasize kind heartedness, help, sympathy, forgiveness, sacrifice, love and care. If we understand it correctly, we will wish it for everyone, including our family and fellow human beings.
Kindly review this article http://islameasy.org/K_Islam_Mercy.php

Observing Islam and achieving salvation in the eternal life hereafter is an individual's choice ' a personal matter.

A Muslim has true love and obedience of Allah Almighty. Since Allah commands good treatment of parents and fellow human beings, A Muslim is also kind to them, for the sake of Allah's pleasure. There are limits to obedience for anyone if that comes against our obedience to Allah, who is the Creator of everyone! These two aspects are not contradictory, so there should be no confusion.
Why do you think practicing Islam is disrespect to parents or Non-Muslims?

In the life hereafter, no one will be able to save other person. Everyone is responsible for her own faith and actions. Practicing Islam is not a sin even if one has gone against her parents' wishes.

You will find it truly amazing that the answer comes direct from God, in the Holy Qur'an, Chapter 31, Verses 14-15

14. And We have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness and hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years - give thanks to Me and to your parents, unto Me is the final destination.

15. But if they (both) strive with you to make you join in worship with Me others that of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not, but behave with them in the world kindly, and follow the path of him who turns to Me in repentance and in obedience. Then to Me will be your return, and I shall tell you what you used to do.

Islam teaches respect, sympathy and tolerance. Kind treatment of parents is a quality of the believer. The Quraan and Ahaadith are replete with orders and advices of being obedient to one's parents.
Allah states, "And worship Allah and do not ascribe any partner to Him and be favorable to parents." (Banu Israaeel).

The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, "Paradise lies under the feet of the mothers."

It is clear from the above quotations that one should respect their parents and be favorable to them. The ruling is general. It includes parents who are Muslims as well as non-Muslims. Asma (Radhiallaahu Anha) states that her mother was a non-Muslim and came to visit her, she enquired from the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) if she can enjoin ties with her non-Muslim mother. The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) replied, "Yes". (Bukhari vol.2)

Maintaining ties with non-Muslim parents or relatives presents one with an ideal situation to convey the etiquettes of Islam in a practical way.

It is also important to point out that in dealing with non-Muslim parents or relatives, one must not compromise in one's Islamic values and principles. It is incorrect to obey anyone against the orders of Allah.

Finally, there is no compulsion in religion. Islam is the continuation of the same original message brought by all previous prophets.

And Allah knows best.

Ask Alimah Team

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