How to treat a sinful (fasiq) father

Question

Question: Zayd has children, but he is caught up in evil deeds, to the extent that one of his sons saw him committing an evil deed. When the children tried to stop Zayd, Zayd stopped speaking to the children. What is now the obligation (fard) of the children: should they speak with Zayd or not?

Answer

The children should show respect to their father and keep him pleased, but gradually, finding the right moment, they should also warn the father of Allah’s punishment and admonish him; indeed, they should get him attached to some pious elder, so that through his company and guidance the father may give up this evil habit.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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