What is the ruling on not showing respect to elders?
Scholars have not found explicit statements regarding the ruling on showing deference to elders (tawqir al-kabir), and it appears to fluctuate between being obligatory (wujub) and recommended (istihbab). In a , it is stated: "He is not of us who does not show mercy to our young ones and acknowledge the honor of our elders." In another narration, it says: "and show deference to our elders."
The meaning of "ليس منا" (is not of us) signifies that one is not adhering to our and guidance. Some scholars are of the opinion that the phrase "ليس منا" indicates prohibition (tahrim).
Among other Ahadith that point to this is: "Indeed, it is a part of glorifying Allah to honor a grey-haired Muslim."
Ibn Tawus mentioned that it is from the Sunnah to show deference to four types of people: the scholar, the elderly, the ruler, and the parent. Some scholars have even counted this among the branches of faith.
Conversely, a lack of deference towards elders ranges between prohibition and disapproval (karahah), and it contradicts Islamic etiquette and morals. Therefore, a Muslim must give elders their due right of respect and deference.
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