The 5th Commandment - Honoring Your Father & Mother

כַּבֵּ֥ד אֶת־אָבִ֖יךָ וְאֶת־אִמֶּ֑ךָ לְמַ֨עַן֙ יַֽאֲרִכ֣וּן יָמֶ֔יךָ עַ֚ל הָֽאֲדָמָ֔ה אֲשֶׁר ה' אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ נֹתֵ֥ן לָֽךְ:

The fifth commandment in the Torah, "Honor your father and your mother", is considered one of the most important commandments in Judaism. It not only instructs individuals to respect and show gratitude to their parents, but also has far-reaching implications for Jewish society as a whole. Here are some comments from classic commentators on this verse.

Rashi adds that one should "Honor your father and your mother" with actions and words. The Ramban says that this includes providing for your parent's physical needs,and showing them respect and reverence.

Rambam (Maimonides) states that this is one of the greatest commandments, for the continuation of the human race depends on it. A person should support them, obey them, and honor them in their old age

The reward for honoring one's parents, according to the verse, is "that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God gives you." In other words, if you honor your mother and father, you will be rewarded with a long life and a secure existence in the land of Israel.

The Gemara in Massechet Kiddushin (31a) states that the reward for honoring one's parents is specifically linked to living in the land of Israel. The land of Israel is considered a particularly favorable place for those who honor their parents, as they will be able to enjoy the benefits of a long life in a secure and prosperous land.

The Ibn Ezra, agrees that this reward for honoring one's parents as being limited to those who live in the land of Israel, and is a specific reward for doing so while in Israel.

By honoring one's parents, a person demonstrates their gratitude and respect for the generations that came before them and sets a good example for the generations to come.