A Man approached Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and asked if  there is anything he could do for his deceased parents. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Yes! Supplicate (make Dua) to Allah to forgive them and fulfil their Wasiyyat (last wishes, if these conform to the Shariah.) Then, be kind to (especially) those relatives who are related to you from your father’s side. Honour and aid his friends.”

In the rich tapestry of Islamic teachings, the role of the father is deeply respected and honored. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with one’s parents, even after their passing. A man once asked the Prophet ﷺ if there was anything he could do for his deceased parents. The Prophet ﷺ replied:

“Yes! Supplicate to Allah to forgive them, fulfill their last wishes (if they conform to the Shariah), be kind to those related to you through your father, and honor his friends.”
(Abu Dawood)

This Hadith beautifully illustrates that our duty to our parents, especially our father, does not end with their death. It continues through prayer, kindness, and loyalty to their relationships.

The Father’s Role in Islam

The father is described in Islam as a shepherd of his household. He is responsible for the moral, spiritual, and physical well-being of his family. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)

This responsibility includes nurturing children with love, discipline, and guidance rooted in Islamic values.

The Path to Paradise

The Prophet ﷺ also taught that pleasing one’s father is a path to earning Allah’s pleasure:

“The pleasure of Allah lies in the pleasure of the father, and the displeasure of Allah lies in the displeasure of the father.”
(Tirmidhi)

This Hadith reminds us that honoring our father is not just a social duty—it is a spiritual obligation.

Continuing the Legacy

Even after a father’s death, a righteous child can continue to benefit him through:

• Dua (supplication)
• Fulfilling his promises
• Maintaining ties with his relatives
• Honoring his friends

These acts are not only a tribute to the father’s legacy but also a source of ongoing reward for the child.

Conclusion

In Islam, the father holds a position of great respect and responsibility. Honoring him—during his life and after his death—is a means of earning Allah’s pleasure and fulfilling a sacred duty. Let us strive to uphold this noble relationship with sincerity, love, and devotion.