Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab)

Sahih al-Bukhari 6015

Hadith Text

"Allah's Apostle said, Gabriel kept on recommending me about treating the neighbors in a kind and polite manner, so much so that I thought that he would order (me) to make them (my) heirs."

Commentary

This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari demonstrates the supreme importance Islam places on the rights of neighbors. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasizes that the angel Gabriel repeatedly stressed proper treatment of neighbors to such an extent that he anticipated they might be granted inheritance rights.

The repetition of Gabriel's counsel indicates the gravity of this obligation. Neighbors' rights encompass protecting their honor, assisting in times of need, sharing food, offering sincere counsel, and refraining from harm. This teaching establishes that good conduct toward neighbors is not merely social etiquette but a fundamental religious duty approaching the significance of familial obligations.

Islamic scholars explain that this hadith establishes three levels of neighborly rights: the neighbor who is also a relative, the neighbor who is Muslim, and the neighbor who is non-Muslim - each deserving kindness according to their specific relationship to you. The Prophet's anticipation shows how comprehensively Islam safeguards social harmony through emphasizing these interpersonal responsibilities.