Allah Describes a Mother’s Pain in One Verse

English Translation (Surah Luqman 31:14)

“And We have enjoined upon man concerning his parents. His mother carried him in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents. To Me is the final return.”

Introduction

This verse from Surah Luqman (31:14) beautifully highlights the عظمت (greatness) of a mother in Islam. Allah ﷻ reminds humanity of the immense sacrifices made by the mother—her physical weakness, emotional pain, and lifelong care—while placing gratitude to parents immediately after gratitude to Allah Himself. It establishes motherhood not just as a relationship, but as a sacred trust and responsibility.

Description

In this verse, Allah ﷻ draws special attention to the mother by mentioning her hardships in detail:

Pregnancy marked by weakness upon weakness

The long period of breastfeeding and nurturing

Continuous sacrifice without expectation of return

By doing so, the Qur’an elevates the status of the mother and makes gratitude toward her a divine command. The verse ends by reminding us that all journeys return to Allah, emphasizing accountability for how we treat our parents—especially our mother.

Summary

Allah commands kindness and gratitude toward parents

A mother’s sacrifices are mentioned with special emphasis

Gratitude to parents is linked with gratitude to Allah

Respecting and serving one’s mother is a spiritual duty

Every human will return to Allah and be questioned about this responsibility