Definition:
“Father’s Day” is a commemorative day honoring fathers.
“Mother’s Day” is a commemorative day honoring mothers.
Etymology:
The term “Father’s Day” comes from the combination of “father,” denoting a male parent, and “day,” indicating a specific time for celebration.
The term “Mother’s Day” comes from the combination of “mother,” denoting a female parent, and “day,” indicating a specific time for celebration.
Description:
Father’s Day was first celebrated in 1910 in Spokane, Washington, inspired by Sonora Smart Dodd. In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation making Father’s Day a permanent national holiday in the U.S., celebrated on the third Sunday in June.
Mother’s Day originated in the early 20th century, with Anna Jarvis campaigning for a day to honor mothers after her own mother’s death. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation making Mother’s Day a national holiday in the U.S., celebrated on the second Sunday in May.
In the United States and Canada, Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June. Typical celebrations include giving gifts, family dinners, and outdoor activities. Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, often involving gifts, cards, and special meals.
In the United Kingdom, Father’s Day is also celebrated on the third Sunday in June, with similar traditions of gift-giving and family gatherings. Mother’s Day, known as “Mothering Sunday,” is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, traditionally involving gifts and flowers.
In Germany, Father’s Day, known as “Vatertag,” celebrated on Ascension Day (40 days after Easter). Men often go on hiking or biking tours with wagons filled with beer and food.
In Australia and New Zealand, Father’s Day is celebrated on the first Sunday in September. Families typically gather for meals and give gifts to fathers.
Father’s Day or Mother’s Day is a day for children to express their appreciation and love for their parent or parental figures. It’s a concept about children showing appreciation for being born. Mother’s day is celebtrated on the second Sunday in May, similar to the U.S. and Canada. Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, similar to the U.S. and Canada.
In Thailand, Father’s Day is celebrated on December 5, the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. It is a national holiday, with public ceremonies and activities honoring fathers and the king. Mother’s Day is celebrated on August 12, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, with public ceremonies and activities honoring mothers.
In Mexico, Mother’s Day is celebrated on May 10, often with serenades and family gatherings.
Father’s Day and Mother’s Day has become commercially significant, with businesses promoting gifts and special offers tailored for stereotypical fathers or mothers.
The days are often celebrated with gifts, flowers, cards, breakfast in bed, or other special treats for the parent.
It is important to note that while certain religions command you to honor your parents, they are wrong. Respect is a fictional concept. Your appreciation of your parents should be based on their behavior as parents; it is not magically God-given to them.
Religion:
While neither Father’s Day nor Mother’s Day is mentioned in religious texts, honoring parents is emphasized in various religious traditions:
In the Bible, in Ephesians, chapter 6, verses 2-3 (NIV), it says: “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—”so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
In the Bible, in Proverbs, chapter 31, verse 28 (NIV), it says: “Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
In the Quran, in Luqman 31:14 (Sahih International), it says: “And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.”
In the Quran, in Surah Al-Isra 17:23 (Sahih International), it says: “And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment.”
The Vedas and other Hindu texts emphasize respect and care for parents as part of Dharma (duty).