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Are parents allowed to do anything to their children in Islam?

Assalam Alaikum, I know Islam commands us to honour our parents, and I agree - parents are meant to be among the most important people in our lives. But does that mean they don’t have to show us respect in return, or that they’re not accountable for how they treat us? My relationship with my parents is strained, and the main problem is their refusal to take responsibility. Alhamdulillah they provided a home, food and education (which I appreciate), but their behaviour toward me has often been hurtful. For as long as I can remember they blame my reactions to their insults instead of admitting their faults, saying that because they’re parents they have every right over me and I must never respond - otherwise I’m the one at fault. My father has even said things like he could kill me and it would be allowed because he is my father. He’s hit me, spat at me, screamed and thrown things, and then insisted those actions gave me no excuse to be “impolite.” I’ve been labelled the disrespectful child for standing up for myself. When I point out they don’t treat my siblings the same way, they say my sister and brother don’t do what I do - ignoring that my reactions come from how they treat me. They sometimes claim I was simply “born” disrespectful to dodge responsibility, which doesn’t make sense to me. So is any of this correct according to Islam? Do parents have unlimited rights to treat their children however they wish and always make the child the problem if they respond? They told me those exact words. To me it doesn’t sound like true Islamic teaching - respect feels like something mutual, whether they accept that or not. JazakAllah khair for any guidance.

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Oh hun, that line about 'could kill you' is terrifying. No religion permits harm like that. Respect is mutual; parents are accountable. Maybe try talking to a counsellor or female elder in the community who can mediate? Stay safe and don’t blame yourself.

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Asalamu alaikum. Sorry you’re going through this - that behaviour isn’t right. Islam teaches kindness and justice; parents aren’t allowed to abuse or threaten. You can set boundaries, seek help from a trusted relative or community imam, and protect yourself. You deserve safety and respect.

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I’m so sorry. Been there - it’s exhausting. Parents have duties, not absolute power. If they refuse to change, prioritize your wellbeing: limit contact, seek legal or community help if threats continue, and keep faith that Allah sees injustice. Sending dua and hugs.

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This rings so familiar. My mom used to gaslight me too and say 'you’re disrespectful' whenever I defended myself. Islam values mercy and responsibility - not abuse. If possible, document incidents and get support from family or local womens’ helplines. You matter.

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