In a world often dominated by stories of inheritance disputes, a heartwarming case from Al-Asiyah in Saudi Arabia’s Qassim region has captured global attention. It tells a unique tale of two brothers who went to court—not to claim wealth or property, but to earn the right to care for their elderly mother.
The story revolves around two devoted sons, Hizam Al-Ghamdi and his younger brother. For years, Hizam had dedicated himself to looking after their aging mother. Seeing his brother’s tireless commitment, the younger brother approached the court with a selfless request: he wanted to take over his mother’s care so that his older brother could finally rest.
When the judge asked the 100-year-old mother to choose which son should care for her, her response was profoundly moving. She said both of her sons were equally dear to her, like her “left and right eyes,” and she could not choose between them.
Touched by the family’s sincerity and the sons’ pure intentions, the judge made a thoughtful ruling. He assigned the duty of care to the younger brother, allowing Hizam some respite. Importantly, both brothers continued to love, honor, and support their mother with unwavering dedication until her passing.
This case stands as a powerful reminder of the Islamic values of selfless service, filial piety (Birr al-Walidayn), and the pursuit of spiritual reward (Jannah) over worldly gain. It highlights a beautiful competition in goodness—a race not for money, but for the pleasure of Allah and the comfort of a parent.
FAQs
Q1: Why did the brothers go to court?
A1: They went to court for a unique and selfless reason: to settle who would have the right and honor of personally caring for their elderly mother, not to dispute property or wealth.
Q2: What was the mother’s response when asked to choose a son?
A2: The 100-year-old mother poetically said both sons were like her “left and right eyes,” meaning they were equally precious and indispensable to her. She could not choose one over the other.
Q3: What is the Islamic significance of this story?
A3: It beautifully exemplifies the core Islamic principles of Birr al-Walidayn (kindness to parents) and seeking reward in the Hereafter (Jannah). It shows devotion to parents as a spiritual act, not just a duty.
Q4: What was the judge’s final decision?
A4: The judge assigned the responsibility of daily care to the younger brother, allowing the older brother, Hizam, who had served for years, to rest. Both brothers remained actively involved in her well-being.
