Must One Obey a Mother Who Objects to Visiting the Mosque?

Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Question

If a mother becomes upset when her child visits the mosque, must the child obey and stop going?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Merciful and Compassionate.

This matter depends on the circumstances, particularly the child’s age and the reasons behind the parent’s concern.

Considering the Age and Circumstances of the Child

There can be a difference between a young child, such as a seven or eight-year-old, walking to the mosque when the mosque is far away and a situation where the circumstances are clearly safe and reasonable. In some cases, a parent may have genuine concerns.

There is also a difference between going to the mosque to attend the prayer and returning home, and going to the mosque but then remaining out for a long period of time. For example, a child might go to the mosque, spend time socializing, go out for food, spend time elsewhere, and return home several hours after Maghrib without even praying ‘Isha in the mosque. Situations like this may reasonably upset a parent.

Similarly, if the child has not yet reached maturity and is spending time with questionable company or remaining out late, these are concerns that a parent may understandably have.

When There Is No Reasonable Concern

If the child is going to the mosque responsibly, the situation is safe, and the child is not staying out late or doing anything inappropriate, then the scholars have addressed such situations.

Imam Saffarini, an 18th-century great Palestinian scholar of the Hanbali school, mentions in his work Ghidha al-Albab that the way to deal with such matters is with discretion.

One should avoid upsetting one’s parents while still doing what is right. This may involve being discreet, such as mentioning that one is visiting friends or handling the matter in a way that avoids unnecessary conflict.

Maintaining Good Character with Parents

The most important matter is maintaining good character. One should not argue or show disrespect toward one’s parents. Instead, maintain good manners and patience.

At times, parents may initially object but later come around. For this reason, it is best not to fight or create unnecessary conflict.

The Importance of Wisdom

In dealing with parents, diplomacy is often more effective than confrontation. One should not declare war on one’s parents. Rather, one should approach such matters with wisdom, tact, and careful judgment.

In difficult situations, it is also beneficial to seek consultation and guidance.

Related

• What Do I Do If My Mum Stops Me From Performing Religious Duties?
• Obeying My Mother or Praying Jumu‘a
• My Parents Prevent Me From Practicing: What Should I Do?
• Do I Have to Obey My Parents If They Stop Me From Listening to Religious Talks?

And Allah is the giver of success and facilitation.
[Shaykh] Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani is a recognized specialist scholar in the Islamic sciences, having studied under leading scholars from around the world. He is the Founder and Executive Director of SeekersGuidance.

Shaykh Faraz stands as a distinguished figure in Islamic scholarship. His journey in seeking knowledge is marked by dedication and depth. He spent ten years studying under some of the most revered scholars of our times. His initial studies took place in Damascus. He then continued in Amman, Jordan.

In Damascus, he was privileged to learn from the late Shaykh Adib al-Kallas. Shaykh Adib al-Kallas was renowned as the foremost theologian of his time. Shaykh Faraz also studied under Shaykh Hassan al-Hindi in Damascus. Shaykh Hassan is recognized as one of the leading Hanafi jurists of our era.

Upon completing his studies, Shaykh Faraz returned to Canada in 2007. His return marked a new chapter in his service to the community. He founded SeekersGuidance. The organization reflects his commitment to spreading Islamic knowledge. It aims to be reliable, relevant, inspiring, and accessible. This mission addresses both online and on-the-ground needs.

Shaykh Faraz is also an accomplished author. His notable work includes “Absolute Essentials of Islam: Faith, Prayer, and the Path of Salvation According to the Hanafi School,” which was published by White Thread Press in 2004 and is a significant contribution to Islamic literature.

His influence extends beyond his immediate community. Since 2011, Shaykh Faraz has been recognized as one of the 500 most influential Muslims. This recognition comes from the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Center. It underscores his impact on the global Islamic discourse.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani’s life and work embody a profound commitment to Islamic scholarship. His teachings continue to enlighten and guide seekers of knowledge worldwide.