Neighbours

From Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, Hadith 106

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Jibril kept recommending me to treat neighbors well until I thought he would make them heirs."

Commentary

This hadith demonstrates the immense importance Islam places on the rights of neighbors. The continuous emphasis from the Angel Jibril (Gabriel) indicates this is no ordinary matter but a fundamental principle of faith.

The expression "until I thought he would make them heirs" shows the extreme degree to which neighborly rights are emphasized in Islam. While neighbors do not actually inherit like blood relatives, their rights are so weighty that the Prophet imagined they might be given inheritance status.

This teaching establishes that good treatment of neighbors is not merely social etiquette but an essential religious obligation that reflects one's faith and character.

Practical Application

A Muslim must be kind, helpful, and considerate toward neighbors, sharing in their joys and sorrows, offering assistance when needed, and avoiding any harm to them.

The neighborhood relationship in Islam extends beyond mere proximity to include rights that must be honored regardless of the neighbor's faith or background.