Mother’s Day is celebrated across the world as a time to honor and appreciate mothers for their love, sacrifices, and tireless devotion. But for many Muslims, the occasion prompts reflection: Where did this tradition come from? Is it permissible in Islam? And if not, what are some authentic Islamic alternatives to show gratitude to our mothers?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of Mother’s Day, take a close look at the Islamic perspective, and offer faithful, meaningful ways to honor mothers within Islamic principles.
The Origins and Evolution of Mother’s Day
The idea of celebrating motherhood isn’t new—it dates back thousands of years.
In ancient times, cultures like the Greeks and Romans held festivals to honor mother goddesses such as Rhea and Cybele. These celebrations were often tied to religion, fertility, and seasonal change.
In the Christian world, the fourth Sunday of Lent became known as “Mothering Sunday”, a day when people returned to their “mother church” and also paid respects to their actual mothers.
The modern Mother’s Day, as we know it today, originated in the United States in the early 1900s. Anna Jarvis, an American activist, began campaigning to dedicate a day to honoring mothers after the death of her own mother in 1905. By 1914, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson made it an official holiday.
Since then, it has become a global, commercialized celebration. It’s common to see greeting cards, flowers, brunches, and gifts being exchanged on the second Sunday of May in many countries.
The Islamic Perspective on Mother’s Day
1. The Elevated Status of Mothers in Islam
Islam holds mothers in exceptionally high regard. This is not limited to one day—it’s a consistent, lifelong teaching rooted in the Quran and Hadith.
“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.”
(Surah Luqman 31:14)
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized the importance of mothers repeatedly:
A man came to the Prophet and asked, “Who is most deserving of my good treatment?” The Prophet replied, “Your mother.” The man asked, “Then who?” He said, “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” He said, “Your mother.” The man asked once more, “Then who?” He replied, “Your father.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim)
These teachings illustrate that Islam doesn’t need a special day to honor mothers—it mandates consistent respect, care, and love every single day.
2. Is Celebrating Mother’s Day Permissible in Islam?
Islamic scholars hold different views on celebrating Mother’s Day. These views can generally be categorized into two perspectives:
Some scholars consider it permissible, as long as the celebration is not treated as a religious holiday, and it doesn’t include un-Islamic customs. They argue that expressing love and appreciation for one's mother is encouraged by Islam, and if Mother’s Day prompts positive, halal actions—such as giving gifts, making dua, or spending time with one's mother—it can be seen as an extension of those teachings.
Other scholars discourage its celebration, especially if it’s viewed as an imitation of non-Muslim traditions or tied to religious or commercial origins. Their caution lies in Islam’s emphasis on not introducing innovations (bid’ah) into the faith, particularly when it comes to holidays and ritual observances.
The Problem with One-Day Celebrations
One of the primary concerns within the Islamic worldview is reducing the honor of a mother to just one calendar day.
In Islam, serving your mother, speaking kindly to her, making dua for her, and seeking her pleasure are seen as daily obligations—not occasional gestures.
“Paradise lies at the feet of your mother.”
(Sunan al-Nasa’i)
Thus, Islam promotes a lifestyle of love and respect, not just a once-a-year celebration with flowers and cards.
Faithful and Meaningful Alternatives to Mother’s Day
Even if one chooses not to celebrate Mother’s Day in the Western sense, Islam offers many beautiful and powerful alternatives to honor mothers—not just on one day, but throughout the year.
Here are some meaningful ways to do that:
Make dua (supplication) for her well-being, guidance, and forgiveness daily.
Spend quality time with her regularly—listen to her, learn from her, and laugh with her.
Help her with chores or errands without her asking.
Give her thoughtful gifts—not because it’s expected, but because it’s heartfelt.
Speak gently and never raise your voice, even in disagreement.
If she has passed away, continue honoring her by giving charity on her behalf, reading Quran, and maintaining ties with her family and friends.
These actions are not only rewarding in this world, but they are also beloved by Allah and can earn His immense pleasure.
A Gentle Middle Path
If you live in a culture where Mother’s Day is celebrated widely, and you want to use the occasion to express love and appreciation without compromising your Islamic principles, some scholars allow for a balanced approach.
That means:
You don’t treat it as a religious or fixed ritual,
You avoid extravagance or un-Islamic customs,
And you use it as an opportunity to strengthen the bond with your mother—not replace everyday kindness.
In other words, let it be a reminder—not the foundation—of your duty to her.
Final Thoughts: Make Every Day Mother’s Day
In Islam, mothers are not celebrated with hashtags and cards once a year—they are honored daily with love, service, and sincere prayer. Whether or not you mark the date known as Mother’s Day, what matters most is the consistency of your kindness and the depth of your devotion.
Don’t wait for May to come around. Call her today. Visit her. Thank her. Hug her. Pray for her. Make it part of your daily worship.
Because when it comes to mothers, Islamic love is not seasonal. It’s eternal.
What Do You Think?
Every family is unique, and every mother is special. Whether you choose to observe Mother’s Day or honor your mother in quiet, daily ways—your intention matters most.
We’d love to hear from you.
Do you celebrate Mother’s Day? Do you think it's permissible in Islam?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation with fellow readers.
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