Guided by Stars: The Benefits of Honoring Parents is an insightful Islamic book compiled by Dr. Hassan Abdul Akbar, with a foreword by Dr. Bilal Philips, exploring the important position of parents and family in Islam.
Honoring one's parents goes far beyond providing for them when they are in need. It includes generosity, respectful obedience in what is good and proper, showing them the highest level of respect, speaking politely, and treating them with kindness and beautiful words.
Through an in-depth discussion of the position of the father and mother in Islam, this book aims to strengthen Muslim families by examining both the authority Islam gives parents and the limits placed upon that authority.
The Sun, the Moon and the Stars
The book draws attention to the remarkable dream of Prophet Yusuf عليه السلام, in which the family is represented through the imagery of celestial bodies.
Why are Yusuf's parents represented by the sun and the moon, while his siblings are represented by the stars? What lessons can Muslims take from this imagery about parents, children and the structure of the family?
Guided by Stars uses this theme to explore the Islamic understanding of family relationships and the special status accorded to parents.
Honoring Parents in Islam
The book examines what birr al-walidayn—honoring and showing goodness towards one's parents—means in practical life.
It discusses important aspects such as:
• Being generous towards parents, whether they are financially in need or not
• Hearing and obeying parents in matters that are good and proper
• Showing parents respect and good manners
• Speaking to them politely and with beautiful words
• Understanding the position of the mother and father in Islam
• Recognizing parental authority and its Islamic limits
• Building stronger relationships between parents and children
• Strengthening the Muslim family through Islamic guidance
Key Features
• Dedicated study of honoring parents in Islam
• Explores the Islamic concept of birr al-walidayn
• Discusses the rights and position of mothers and fathers
• Examines both parental authority and its limits
• Uses lessons from the story of Prophet Yusuf عليه السلام
• Focuses on strengthening Muslim family relationships
• Practical discussion of respect, obedience and kindness towards parents
• Compiled by Dr. Hassan Abdul Akbar
• Foreword by Dr. Bilal Philips
• Accessible English-language edition
• Compact 134-page paperback suitable for personal and family reading
Who Is This Book For?
Guided by Stars is suitable for Muslims seeking to better understand the rights of parents in Islam, young adults, married couples, parents, Islamic studies students, families and anyone interested in improving parent-child relationships according to Islamic teachings.
It can also make a meaningful Islamic gift for children, young adults, newly married couples and families.
Product Specifications
Title: Guided by Stars: The Benefits of Honoring Parents
Compiled by: Dr. Hassan Abdul Akbar
Foreword by: Dr. Bilal Philips
Publisher: Dakwah Corner Bookstore
Language: English
Format: Paperback
Pages: 134
Publication Year: 2025
Size: Approximately 6 × 9 inches
Thickness: Approximately 0.4 inches
Category: Islamic Family / Parents / Islamic Manners
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Guided by Stars about?
The book explores the benefits and importance of honoring parents in Islam while examining the position, rights, authority and limits of mothers and fathers within the Muslim family.
Why is the book called Guided by Stars?
The title draws upon the imagery in the dream of Prophet Yusuf عليه السلام, where his parents and siblings are represented by the sun, moon and stars. The book explores lessons that can be drawn from this imagery about family relationships.
Does the book discuss the rights of parents in Islam?
Yes. A central theme is the position of parents in Islam, including respect, kindness, generosity and obedience in matters that are good and proper.
Does it also discuss limits to parental authority?
Yes. The book aims to examine both the authority of fathers and mothers and the limits of that authority within an Islamic framework.
Who compiled the book?
It was compiled by Dr. Hassan Abdul Akbar.
Who wrote the foreword?
The foreword is by Dr. Bilal Philips.
How many pages does the book have?
The book contains 134 pages.
Is the book in English?
Yes, this edition is in English.
