Honoring Parents in the Holy Quran and the New Testament

(A Comparative Study)

Abstract

This research aims to study the value of honoring parents through a comparative study between the Holy Quran and the New Testament. This is achieved by examining and analyzing relevant texts to identify points of agreement and difference, and by demonstrating the methodology each adopts in establishing parental rights and proper conduct. The study employs a comparative inductive approach supported by analytical methods, collecting relevant texts, analyzing their content, and comparing them. The study concludes that both the Holy Quran and the New Testament emphasize the importance of honoring parents as a great religious and moral value. However, the Holy Quran distinguishes itself by linking honoring parents to the Oneness of God, and by the comprehensiveness and detail of its legislation regarding parental rights and proper conduct, such as humility, gentleness, supplication for them, and kindness towards them even in cases of differing beliefs. In contrast, the New Testament focuses on honoring, obeying, and rewarding parents, and warns against disobeying them. The study affirms that Islamic law presents a more comprehensive and integrated vision for safeguarding parental rights, thereby strengthening family stability and social cohesion, while highlighting that honoring parents is a shared human value between the two Abrahamic faiths.