And We have enjoined upon man concerning his parents - His...

And We have enjoined upon man concerning his parents - His mother bears him in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years - Give thanks unto Me and unto your parents. Unto Me is the journeying.

(Luqman, 31/13-14) In the first verse, mention is made of how Luqman draws his son’s attention to this exalted truth so that he would not digress into the swamp of error, but rather discover that behind the apparent world and the intricate complexity of creation, there exists a single unique Power who has originated the system of the universe and who controls and regulates it according to an elaborate scheme and an all-knowing intention and purpose.

Therefore, only such a sublime existence deserves to be worshipped. In this regard, he must fulfil his duty towards this Eternal, Needless Being and continually express his thanks and gratitude to Him. In the second verse, the words of Luqman are cut off, and his silence here raises a question: why did Luqman stop talking at this point?

After explaining to his son his responsibilities towards his Lord, it was necessary next to outline his duties towards his parents so that he could properly discharge his responsibilities to his mother and father. It seems that the reason why Luqman became silent at this juncture and did not elaborate upon the duties of a child towards its father and mother is contained in the subtle point that in this case, it was Luqman himself who was the father.

If he brought up the subject of filial obligations, which included politeness, respect and gratitude to the father, it would be as if he was requesting his son to display this behaviour to him personally. It would be tantamount to asking his son to repay him for all his efforts and guidance throughout his childhood and later years, to obey his directives and to never forget his favours.

The speech of a distinguished and wise man like Luqman, who had gathered within his personality so many diverse virtues, cannot be interpreted in this manner, and in truth, it would be an injustice to his station to do so. Secondly, by himself reminding his son of his filial responsibility Luqman is in fact pointing out to his son’s his obligation and indebtedness to himself, an act which does not befit a man who has attained such a high spiritual station.