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Assalamu Alaikum - Need Urgent Islamic Advice: Parents Fighting and Home Is Breaking Apart

Assalamu Alaikum, I’m writing this anonymously because I need sincere Islamic advice and some emotional support. I’m a 22-year-old Muslim student in Brampton, Canada, and the situation at home has become unbearable. Both of my parents are unemployed, and there are eight of us living in one house. Money is tight, but the worst part is the constant fighting. My parents are close to divorce, and there is shouting, crying, and hurtful words every day. My dad pays the rent, water, and electricity, but he has been hiding extra money and refuses to use it for the family. When my mom found out she was devastated. She asked, “We’re living in hardship and you are keeping money from your family?” He replied, “It’s my money; she has no right to it.” Winter is coming and the children don’t have proper coats. My dad said it wasn’t necessary. My sister slept on the sofa for weeks until my mom broke down and then he bought a mattress. He said, “Now that your mom knows about my money, she’ll expect me to buy groceries for everyone.” I kept thinking, who else is supposed to provide? He’s the only man in the house - my mom raised us all. My mom is deeply hurt and reacts angrily. She yells and says things like, “Don’t let him eat the food I cook,” or “I’ll find someone who can provide.” She has been telling people about our problems and I wish she wouldn’t - this should stay private. I try to calm her down: “Mom, please don’t say those things. Let’s not make things worse.” But she cries and accuses me of siding with him, saying I’m betraying her and threatening to leave and live with her mother. Then my dad complains he’s treated like trash, that he has no bed, no clean clothes, no food, and that my mom insults him every day. I’m stuck in the middle. I don’t want to take sides; I just want peace. I pray every night that Allah softens their hearts and brings mercy between them. But I always end up blamed by both. I didn’t get married, yet I feel like I’m drowning in their problems. They refuse help from other adults or relatives, saying “It’s between us,” so nothing changes. The children are exhausted and losing hope. I don’t want my younger sisters to keep seeing this. Please, my brothers and sisters, I need advice: - Am I wrong Islamically for trying to calm my mom down? - How can I remain patient and keep my faith strong when I feel so emotionally drained? Please make duʿā’ for my parents and our family. May Allah soften their hearts, restore peace to our home, and give us strength. - Fatima A’nsari

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Don't beat yourself up. Trying to calm things is compassionate, not betrayal. Remind your parents gently of the kids' needs and that shouting hurts everyone. Keep praying and find a close friend or relative you can trust for support.

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Prayers for your family. You're showing sabr and wisdom. Keep practicing kindness and avoid getting pulled into accusations. If tempers flare, step out, breathe, and come back when it's calmer. Protect the little ones first.

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Honestly, you're doing what many of us would: holding things together. It's okay to say, 'I can't fix this alone' and ask for help. Keep up your duʿā and boundary-setting. You deserve peace too, sister.

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May Allah ease it for you. You're doing the right thing trying to keep the house calm. Also take care of your own mental health - daily small acts of self-care help. Maybe talk to a trusted imam or counselor confidentially.

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I'm so sorry you're going through this, sister. You're not wrong for calming your mom - protecting the kids is noble. Make small goals: sleep, eat, support each other. Keep praying and set boundaries to avoid being blamed. Sending duʻa for ease and mercy.

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I was in a similar spot; it drains you. You're allowed to step back sometimes so you don't collapse. Help the kids feel secure, keep routines, and make duʿā. If possible, document things and seek outside help quietly.

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This hits hard. My heart hurts for you. You can comfort your mom without taking sides - say you love both and want peace. Keep making duʿā and remind yourself it's not your fault. Stay safe and keep reaching out.

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