Does advising parents against detested speech or actions encroach upon their rights upon us? A – It is obligatory upon Muslims to honor their parents, show kindness towards them and gentleness and compassion, as Allah says: “And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents.” (Qur'an, 17:23) “...give thanks to Me and to your parents. To Me is the final destination.” (Qur'an, 31:14) So if he sees in them anything detestable, then he should advise them with good manners, gentleness and kindness. He can seek the assistance of someone who is respected by his parents. He should be careful not to scold them nor be harsh in speech, in accordance to verses quoted above and the statement of the Prophet (peace be upon him) when he was asked about the best deed. He (peace be upon him) said: “Prayer at its appointed time.” He was asked about the next, to which he replied: “Honoring the parents,” and then as for the next he said: “Jihad in the path of Allah.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim) – Sheikh Bin Baz; Ad-Durar An-Naasirah, pg. 666-667 Women cutting hair Q- I hope you will help me concerning cutting my hair from the front of it in a certain style wherein the hair sometimes falls down over the eyebrows. Is this allowed or not? A – I do not know of anything (wrong) in cutting a women's hair. It is not allowed to shave it all. You cannot shave off the hair of your head but you may shorten its length. I do not know anything wrong with that. However, that should be done in a good way that is pleasing to you and your husband. You should agree on how it is going to be done. Also, it should not be in the imitation of disbelieving women. If leaving it long makes it difficult to wash or if it is long and thick and a women cuts it short or layers it, there is nothing wrong with it. She may cut part of it to make herself appear more beautiful to herself and her husband. However, one may not shave altogether. This is not allowed except in the case of some disease or problem. – Sheikh Bin Baz; Islamic Fatawa regarding women, Darussalam, pg. 271 __
