Unmodern Aspects of Islam (29): Exhausted Mothers, Absent Fathers

 

Did you know that surveys show mothers today work what amounts to two full-time jobs when household duties are combined with employment—while many fathers remain emotionally or physically absent from family life? The result: exhausted mothers, disconnected fathers, and children left in the middle.

This imbalance drains families. Mothers collapse under the weight of endless responsibilities. Fathers lose the bond with their children. And homes—meant to be havens—become places of stress and silence.

The Prophet ﷺ showed a different model. He was present in his home, serving his family, mending his clothes, and yet leading with strength and mercy. He said: “The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best of you to my family.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhī, 3895)

The early Muslims followed this balance. Fathers carried responsibility with compassion. Mothers were honored, supported, and uplifted. Together, they raised children in love and faith, building homes where mercy flowed naturally.

What about us? Fathers can reclaim presence. Mothers can be granted support. And families can find strength not in exhaustion, but in shared mercy and responsibility.

In a modern world, the Sunnah is our way back to what truly matters.