Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura
Friday Sermon
14 November 2025 / 23 Jamadilawal 1447H
Attaining Paradise Through Our Parents
Dear blessed congregation,
Have taqwa and be mindful of Allah s.w.t. Obey His commands and avoid His prohibitions. Remember that this world is temporary, and that the Hereafter is eternal. Strive to attain paradise by earning the pleasure of our parents and ultimately Allah s.w.t. May Allah protect us from all forms of harm and guide us towards the doors of piety. Amin, ya Rabbal ‘Alamin.
My dear brothers,
Allah s.w.t. says in surah Ar-Rum, verse 54:
Which means: “It is Allah Who created you in a state of weakness, then developed your weakness into strength, then developed your strength into weakness and old age. He creates whatever He wills. For He is the All-Knowing, Most Capable.”
Brothers, let us reflect upon the profound meaning of this verse. By Allah’s grace, we begin our journey of life as weak and helpless beings. By His grace, we grow and gain strength, and by His grace, we are humbled once again as we age and become weak.
Today, some of us may still be filled with the energy and vigour of youth, while others have begun to lose the strength they once possessed.
For those whose parents are growing older, take a moment to recall their faces ten years ago, and compare them to how they look today. We may notice the signs of aging that have appeared gradually. Their bodies may have grown frail, their hair have turned white, and some even going through moments of forgetfulness.
These signs of aging remind us of the fleeting nature of this worldly life. Yet, they also remind us of the immense opportunity to earn our parents’ pleasure while they are still with us.
Dear brothers,
As our parents age, we must adjust our lives to care for them according to their changing needs and conditions. We must prepare ourselves to ensure that they receive the best care possible. Today’s khutbah shares four practical ways to express our love and genuine concern for our aging parents. May it be beneficial.
Firstly: Ensure a safe home environment
To ensure their safety and well-being, make small adjustments to their living space. Installing handrails, non-slip mats in bathrooms, or similar aids can reduce the risk of falls and injuries. Ensure that pathways in corridors and rooms are clear, and place essential items within easy reach.
Secondly: Nurture their spiritual well-being
Beyond physical comfort, we must also safeguard their spiritual health. For example, a clock that plays the call to prayer can remind them of solat and help them stay connected to worship. We can also download the Qur’an, selected hadith, daily supplications, or their favourite religious lectures on their devices or TV, so that their hearts remain alive in remembrance of Allah s.w.t.
Thirdly: Bring the world to them
As our parents age, their mobility often becomes limited. Therefore, it is upon us to bring the outside world to them. Visit them regularly, show our genuine affection, and ensure they feel valued and remembered.
Also, help them reconnect with friends, whether through physical gatherings or online meetings, so they can remain active in their social lives and experience the warmth of companionship.
Encourage them to use digital devices responsibly and join online classes or light activities that suit their interests. Our parents deserve to remain active and to experience the sense of purpose in life, even as they grow older and less able to go out frequently.
Fourth: Be attentive to their overall well-being
Caring for elderly parents requires proactive attention. For example, prepare a daily or weekly checklist, such as managing medication and meals, to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Use simple health-monitoring tools like pulse or blood pressure devices, which can offer peace of mind for the family. Arrange regular appointments with doctors or healthcare specialists, and assist them in getting there if necessary. If additional support is needed, consider engaging a caregiver to ensure they receive proper attention and care.
Dear blessed congregation,
The Prophet s.a.w. said that which means: “Doomed is he, doomed is he, doomed is he.” When asked “Who, O Messenger of Allah?” He replied: “The one who finds both, or either of his parents in their old age, but does not enter Paradise.” (Narrated by Muslim)
Why did the Prophet s.a.w. say this? Because parents, particularly in their old age, are like a river of blessings continuously flowing towards us. All we need to do is serve them with love and care, and the rewards come easily.
My beloved brothers,
Once, our parents held our hands as we learned to walk. One day, we may find ourselves holding their hands, guiding them with the same tenderness. Once, they fed us when we were hungry; one day, we may feed them with the same love and mercy.
When that time comes, remind them how valuable they are in our lives, how much goodness they have bestowed upon us, and how deeply we love them. Ensure they feel appreciated and cherished, for time will pass, and these moments will one day become our most precious memories.
May Allah grant us the strength to honour them as they deserve, and may He gather us and our parents with our loved ones in the highest of paradise, where we will never have to part again. Amin, ya Rabbal ‘Alamin.
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