Hadith Commentary: The Three Pillars of Faith

This noble hadith from Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 102 establishes three fundamental obligations that serve as practical manifestations of genuine faith in Allah and the Last Day. The Prophet ﷺ connects these social responsibilities directly to the completeness of one's iman, indicating they are not mere recommendations but essential components of Islamic character.

Excellence Towards Neighbors

The command to "be good to his neighbours" encompasses all forms of kindness: protecting their honor, assisting in their needs, sharing in their joys and sorrows, and refraining from harm. Scholars explain that the neighbor's rights extend beyond mere civility to active benevolence, as the Prophet ﷺ emphasized the neighbor's status so greatly that he feared it might lead to inheritance rights.

This teaching from the book "Neighbours" in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad establishes that proper treatment of neighbors is a measure of one's faith, not merely social etiquette. The comprehensive nature of this goodness includes verbal kindness, financial assistance when needed, and physical help.

Generosity to Guests

The instruction to "be generous to his guest" reflects the Islamic ethic of hospitality, which has specific rulings in Shariah. Scholars differentiate between the guest's right of three days of hospitality as obligatory and anything beyond as charity. This generosity includes providing food, comfortable accommodation, and kind treatment.

This aspect of the hadith teaches that welcoming guests is not merely cultural courtesy but an act of worship that strengthens community bonds and demonstrates the beauty of Islamic teachings to others.

Guarding the Tongue

The final instruction to "say what is good or be silent" represents the comprehensive Islamic approach to speech. Scholars explain that every word spoken should either contain benefit - such as remembrance of Allah, seeking knowledge, or reconciliation between people - or one should remain silent to avoid sin.

This teaching protects the believer from numerous sins of the tongue including backbiting, slander, lying, and vain talk. It elevates speech from being a neutral act to an act of worship when used properly, and a means of protection when restrained appropriately.

Interconnected Virtues

These three injunctions are profoundly interconnected in building a righteous society. Goodness to neighbors establishes harmonious communities, generosity to guests strengthens social bonds, and controlling speech preserves the sanctity of interpersonal relationships. Together, they create an environment where faith can flourish through practical manifestation.

The repetition of "Anyone who believes in Allah and the Last Day" before each injunction emphasizes that these are not optional virtues but essential requirements of complete faith, making them binding upon every Muslim seeking to perfect their religion.