Level: Three
Instructor: Imam Yama Niazi
Course Overview
This is a Level Three course in the Youth curriculum. It is based on the book, The Rights of Parents, by the great West African scholar Shaykh Muhammad Mawlud.
The rights of the parents are from the most important duties of every single Muslim. Gratitude to parents is a command in the Qur’an and we need to learn how to fulfill this command. One cannot draw close to Allah without having a good relationship with the parents. It is essential knowledge for our Youth as the treatment of parents is from both the greatest of good deeds and the worst of sins if one is disobedient to them.
This class addresses a very big problem in the Muslim communities which is the continued decline and neglect of the parents. In addition, the commentary summarized by Imam Yama Niazi will provide the student with a practical and clear path to attaining paradise by giving their parents the rights they deserve.
About the Text
This important text covers the details related to being dutiful towards parents. It covers the virtues and importance of filial piety. Written in poetry form, it is concise and full of wisdom and guidance. This is a text whose popularity has grown in the west over the last 20 years or so.
This text is considered as personal obligatory knowledge which all Muslims must learn. It is therefore incumbent for youth and children to learn what Islam teaches in regards to the lofty status of parents. Parents are an essential part of our lives. We receive honor and reward for being dutiful and kind to them. This particular book has a rich commentary by another West African scholar named Muhammad Hasan ibn Ahmad al-Khadim.
About the Author
Shaykh Muhammad Mawlud (1844-1905 AD) is known for his books on the subject of spirituality and his high level of piety. He has had a significant impact on many Muslim scholars in the West who have studied in West Africa. His book on this subject matter is considered an excellent source of clear guidance on the topic of filial piety.
Who Is This Course For?
• This course is for Youth in the age range of 12-18 years of age.
• It is particularly beneficial for young Muslims living in the West.
• This course can also be taken by anyone interested in learning what Islam teaches in honoring and respecting parents.
• It is a Level Three course. At least one class in spirituality should be taken from Level One or Two as a prerequisite.
Study Effort
2 hours weekly
Recommended Reading: The Rights of the Parents by Shaykh Muhammad Mawlud, translated by Rami Nsour.
Learning Outcomes
• Complete their true understanding of being a good Muslim.
• Learn the obligations towards parents.
• Learn the common mistakes in behavior towards parents.
• Apply these teachings in their lives.
• Gain insight into practical and clear solutions for fulfilling the rights of parents.
Course Outline
Lesson 1: Introduction to the Text
Lesson 2: Piety in Speech
Lesson 3: Piety in Interaction
Lesson 4: Assisting Parents
Lesson 5: Parents and Marriage
Lesson 6: Piety Towards Parents After Their Demise
Lesson 7:Major Sins Related to Parents
Lesson 8: Disrespecting the Parents
Lesson 9: The Dangers of Mistreatment of Parents
Lesson 10: Warnings of Disobedience to Parents
Lesson 11: The Duties Owed to the Mother
Lesson 12: The Rights of Children
About the Instructor
Imam Yama Niazi has studied with local scholars in the US for a number of years which culminated in him becoming an imam of the Islamic Society of Santa Barbara for 8 years. He served the community by teaching and leading prayers.
In 2015 he founded “ the blessed tree “ a nonprofit specifically for bridging gaps between the Muslim community and others.
He has spoken in many Muslim platforms and programs throughout the US and Canada.
He currently teaches and is an instructor at SeekersGuidance and is leading youth education programs as well as conducting programs in local communities/ masjids in North America.
He is married and has 3 children.
- Teacher: Imam Yama Niazi
