From a tiny drop that becomes an embryo, the girl-child is born to be an honored part of God's plan.  God states in the Muslim holy book, the Qur'an: "O humankind! Be conscious of your Lord Who created you from a single soul, and out of it created its mate, and out of the two spread countless men and women.  Be conscious of God through Whom you demand your mutual rights and honor the wombs; God always watches over you" Qur'an 4:1

The first Woman

According to the Qur'an, there was a Garden of Eden.  There was a forbidden tree, but no apple, no snake, and certainly no fault on Eve alone.  Both Adam and Eve sinned at the same time.  They felt shame, repented, and were forgiven together.  God provided then with guidance, showing them a way back to Him.

"...Each soul earns on its own account; and no bearer of burdens shall bear the burden of another ..." (Qur'an 6:164)

"If any do deeds of righteousness whether male or female, and have faith, they will enter Paradise and not the least injustice will be done to them."  (Qur'an 4:124)

The sole purpose and existence of both women and men is to worship God through faith and good deeds, fulfilling their role as God's honorable trustees and witnesses on this earth.

"And among His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may live in tranquility with them; and He has brought between you love and mercy.  Truly, in this are signs for those who reflect."  (Qur'an 30:21)

Prophet Mohammed said: "Treat women well and be kind to them; they are your partners and committed helpers."

Motherhood

"And We have enjoined upon man to be good to his parents.  With difficulty upon difficulty did his mother bear him and wean him for two years.  Show gratitude Me and your parents; to Me us your final goal."  (Qur'an 31:14)

Motherhood & Birthdays

My dear little one:

You looked like a shining star on your birthday. You were the focus of attention and your face shone with happiness as each one congratulated you. You received lots of gifts as well as prayers and good wishes.

That was your day?

OR was it?

On your birthday, who really did the birth?

Was it you or your mother?!

Who bore the burdens and went through the hurdles before that day materialized?

And who bore the responsibilities of caring and catering for you since

I wish you many happy birthdays but I never forget that your birthday is in reality your mother's birthday.

Reflections by Dr. H. Hathut

Happy Mothers day...Mothers are accorded a special place of honor and respect in Islam.  It is reported that the Prophet stated "Heaven lies at the foot of the Mother".  A mother sacrifices for the well-being of her children. She has many sleepless nights either because her child is sick or because of worries. No one would believe, unless they have experienced it, that older children need more guidance. All you can do is wish for them the best, raise them well, and have them grow up with strong moral values and firm religious background. The mother is the primary teacher of the child, the best well-wisher. 

A man once came to Prophet Mohammed and asked "O Messenger of God!  Who among the people is most worthy of my good companionship?"  The Prophet replied: "Your mother."  The man asked who next, the Prophet replied "Your mother." again.  The man repeated the question a third time, and got the same answer,  The man asked once aging, "Who next?", Only then did the Prophet (peace be upon him) reply, "Your father."

Imagine how it is for children who did not have a mother. Some children die out of lack of love or have attachment disorders. Our dear Prophet (pbuh) lost both his father before he was born, and his mother at a very young age. How he must have suffered without his two parents to guide him. Yet this is what gave him social consciousness and empathy for other orphans.  So this Mother's Day, and every day, give your mother a hug. No one can replace a mother, or her love.