Am I obligated to obey my brother, who is five years my junior, in his requests, while he does not obey me? And is what my mother says true, that I must respect him because he is a man and I am a woman, or is the opposite true because I am older than him?

The relationship between brothers and sisters is based on affection and mercy. The younger respects the elder, and the elder cares for the younger, in fulfillment of the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) saying: "He is not of us who does not show mercy to our young ones and respect our elders."

A woman's obedience is due to her parents and husband, under certain conditions. A brother has no right to demand obedience from his sister as long as she is under her father's guardianship.

A brother has the right of guardianship over her in marriage and related matters when those with more priority are absent. Among the requirements of this guardianship is the brother's care for his sister and her financial support if she is in need.

A sister's obedience to her brother in daily life matters is part of good conduct and maintaining kinship ties. The spirit of empathy, mercy, and good manners should prevail among family members.