Seeking Guidance on Dealing with an Abusive Mother
Asalamu alaikum brothers and sisters. I'm reaching out for some Islamic insight regarding a very painful situation with my mother, who has been abusive towards me for many years. From my childhood, she would physically harm me, deny me food, and leave me outside in harsh conditions. Even as I've grown older, the abuse hasn't fully stopped-though physical attacks have lessened because I can defend myself now, she continues with relentless verbal attacks and emotional cruelty. She's even declared to our family that I am no longer her child, which has left me feeling deeply hurt, anxious, and spiritually shaken. I struggle with my sense of identity and purpose because of this ongoing pain. When I try to stand up for myself, she insists that I'm sinning by speaking back and claims I'll be condemned to hell since she won't forgive me. This leaves me confused and fearful about my faith. I currently live with her and cannot move out, though I plan to stay as the home may be passed to me later. My main questions are: Does Islam unconditionally protect mothers even when they are abusive? Will responding to a mother's abuse lead to eternal punishment? I'm striving to live rightly-praying daily and avoiding major sins-but I need clarity on where Islamic teachings stand in such difficult circumstances. Jazakallah khair for any advice you can share.