Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Anybody who believes in Allah and the Last Day should not harm his neighbor, and anybody who believes in Allah and the Last Day should entertain his guest generously and anybody who believes in Allah and the Last Day should talk what is good or keep quiet. (i.e. abstain from all kinds of evil and dirty talk).
Hadith Text
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Anybody who believes in Allah and the Last Day should not harm his neighbor, and anybody who believes in Allah and the Last Day should entertain his guest generously and anybody who believes in Allah and the Last Day should talk what is good or keep quiet. (i.e. abstain from all kinds of evil and dirty talk)."
Source Reference
Book: Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab)
Author: Sahih al-Bukhari
Hadith: Sahih al-Bukhari 6018
Scholarly Commentary
This noble hadith establishes three fundamental pillars of Islamic conduct that demonstrate complete faith. The Prophet (ﷺ) repeatedly emphasizes belief in Allah and the Last Day to show these actions are manifestations of true faith, not mere social etiquette.
First, the prohibition against harming neighbors encompasses all forms of harm - physical, verbal, and even through unpleasant odors or noises. Scholars like Imam Nawawi explain that "neighbor" includes Muslims and non-Muslims alike, those nearby and those up to forty houses away.
Second, the command to entertain guests generously reflects the Arabian virtue of hospitality now elevated to an act of worship. Scholars differ on the exact duration (typically three days) but agree the essence is to honor guests according to one's capacity without extravagance or miserliness.
Third, controlling one's speech is among the greatest tests of faith. Imam Al-Qurtubi states that this either means speaking only what is good and beneficial, or maintaining silence - there is no middle ground for the believer. This protects against backbiting, lying, vain talk, and all speech that displeases Allah.
Practical Application
These three injunctions form a comprehensive code for social conduct: respect those living near you, honor those visiting you, and purify your speech at all times. Together they create harmonious communities where rights are preserved and hearts are connected.
The repetition of "anybody who believes in Allah and the Last Day" serves as a powerful reminder that these are not optional courtesies but essential requirements of complete faith (iman). Failure in these areas indicates weakness in one's belief, as true faith must manifest in righteous actions.