Fortunately, there is no irrationality attached with islamic teachings. But there is a lot of misconception due to ignorance of rights that concern delicate matters. Allah has clearly set limits for us in all our relationships. Whoever transgresses, has commited a sin/crime, for which Islam has set punishments. I think for the sake of increasing our knowledge, it is important for me to point out (with confirmation from a scholar) that the marriage between husband & wife is automatically nullified if one/both parents commit sexual abuse of their offspring. That is one of the severe consequences of such acts.
It is not entirely their fault Barney. The importance of respecting one's parents has been drummed into us to the extent that the slightest deviation leaves one feeling guilty. I guarantee you there are cases of sexual abuse where children think they are still obliged to respect their parents; because they been told they have to in all matters. Islam's stance on child abuse hardly gets an airing. It's something rarely or never brought to our attention -whether by the victim or the scholars. No wonder that there is so much confusion regarding this issue. I hope this leads toward a better understanding regarding the views of my brothers and sisters here.
Peace.
