How to Bridge the Generation Gap?

The Eldest Brother

The Father

My child! In the same way as fathers are worthy of everybody's respect, the eldest brother is ought to be honoured by all their siblings. Furthermore, the later should regard him as their father.

Our Eighth Imam Ar-Ridha’ (as) had a saying in this regard:

الاخ الاكبر بمنزلة الاب.

“Your eldest brother is like your father.” [^1]

The Child

Of course, he deserves such a high respect provided that his attitudes towards all his siblings are as that of his father. He is to treat them with brotherly love and compassion. Be nice rather than cruel to them at times. In short, be like a father to them.

[^1]: Wafi, part 14, p. 79