Equal Obligations of Male and Female Offspring in Fulfilling Parental Duties: An Islamic Perspective

This qualitative study explores the concept of dutifulness toward parents within Islamic teachings, with a particular emphasis on gender equality in fulfilling filial responsibilities. Drawing upon Qur’anic injunctions and Prophetic traditions (Sunnah), the research critically examines patriarchal interpretations that restrict parental caregiving obligations exclusively to male offspring. Employing a library-based, interpretive methodology, the study analyzes primary Islamic sources—including Qur’anic verses, Hadith, and classical jurisprudential texts—alongside contemporary scholarly literature to highlight the equitable duties of both sons and daughters. The findings reveal that Islam mandates kindness, respect, and lifelong care for parents regardless of gender, supported by explicit theological and ethical injunctions opposing discrimination. This study underscores the importance of challenging socio-cultural misinterpretations that marginalize women’s roles in parental caregiving and advocates for collaborative spousal cooperation in fulfilling these obligations. Practical recommendations include promoting female education, implementing anti-discrimination policies, and fostering early childhood awareness of gender-inclusive responsibilities. By integrating scriptural directives with ethical considerations, this paper reaffirms Islam’s egalitarian principles and positions filial dutifulness as a pathway to spiritual salvation and social cohesion.