The value placed on mothers

Motherhood is praised in the Qur’an. Respect for parents, treating them well and protecting and watching over them in their old age, as at all times, are particular responsibilities imposed on true believers in the Qur’an, and there are a number of verses on the subject. Some of these read:

We have instructed man to honor his parents, ... (Qur’an, 29:8)

Your Lord has decreed that you should worship none but Him, and that you should show kindness to your parents. Whether one or both of them reach old age with you, do not say “Ugh!” to them out of irritation and do not be harsh with them but speak to them with gentleness and generosity. (Qur'an, 17:23)

In the Qur’an God advises Muslims to treat their parents with respect and kindness; yet mothers are especially valued. God reveals in another verse that:

We have instructed man concerning his parents. Bearing him caused his mother great debility and the period of his weaning was two years: “Give thanks to Me and to your parents. I am your final destination.” (Qur'an, 31:14)

Indeed, every mother engages in several months of self-sacrifice to bring her child into the world. As God reveals in the verse, she carries the baby inside with great difficulties and then gives birth to that child with great discomfort. Then, with great altruism, she assumes the task of ensuring that her child is protected and comfortable in all respects. Moreover, they expect no reward for doing all this, and she even pushes her own needs into the background. God is reminding us of these facts and telling us that mothers are very valuable entities indeed.