Why are you so strict regarding the matter of cutting off ties of kinship, especially if there is a compelling reason that drives me to do so? And why are my prayers not answered, even though I feel that they are answered? And is it true that the prayers of a disobedient person are not answered?

We emphasize the seriousness of severing ties of kinship, as it may prevent the answering of supplications. The Hadith of Ibn Mas'ud is cited, "I adjure by Allah any severer of kinship ties among us to leave, for we wish to supplicate to our Lord, and verily the gates of heaven are closed before a severer of kinship ties," despite its weakness.

Nevertheless, a Muslim should not abandon supplication, no matter how great their sins. Rather, they should have a good opinion of Allah, as Sufyan ibn Uyaynah said: "Let not what one knows of oneself prevent any of you from supplicating, for Allah – the Exalted – answered the supplication of the worst of creation, Iblis – may Allah curse him – when he said: (He said: 'My Lord, then respite me till the Day they are resurrected.' He said: 'Indeed, you are among those respited')."

If the father is negligent in providing financial support or is abusive, he is sinful. However, showing righteousness and maintaining ties with him are obligatory upon the children. Righteousness is achieved by conveying good and warding off evil as much as possible. If one fears harm from visiting, then maintaining ties can be done through phone calls and similar means.

We also advise supplicating for the father's betterment and guidance, as this is among the best forms of righteousness and benevolence.