Neighbours

Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 121

Hadith Text

Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "A person whose neighbours are not safe from his evil will not enter the Garden."

Commentary

This profound hadith establishes the fundamental Islamic principle that one's treatment of neighbors directly impacts their ultimate salvation. The phrase "not safe from his evil" encompasses all forms of harm - physical, verbal, or through nuisance. The Prophet �in his wisdom used the strongest possible deterrent by linking neighborly conduct to entry into Paradise.

Scholars explain that the neighbor's rights in Islam extend beyond mere non-harm to include positive kindness, sharing food, offering assistance, and overlooking minor faults. The comprehensive nature of this responsibility reflects Islam's emphasis on social harmony and community welfare.

The severe warning indicates that persistent harm to neighbors, when coupled with lack of repentance, may lead to eternal deprivation of Paradise. This underscores how seriously Islam takes the preservation of communal peace and the protection of people's safety and dignity in their own homes.

Practical Implications

A Muslim must ensure their neighbors feel secure from any harm emanating from them or their household.

This includes protecting them from physical danger, verbal abuse, noise pollution, and any action that disturbs their peace.

The believer should actively seek to benefit neighbors and shield them from harm, making this a measure of genuine faith.