Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "A Muslim is a brother of another Muslim, so he should not oppress him, nor should he hand him over to an oppressor. Whoever fulfilled the needs of his brother, Allah will fulfill his needs; whoever brought his (Muslim) brother out of a discomfort, Allah will bring him out of the discomforts of the Day of Resurrection, and whoever screened a Muslim, Allah will screen him on the Day of Resurrection . "
Hadith Commentary from Sahih al-Bukhari
This profound narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 2442 establishes the fundamental principle of Islamic brotherhood and mutual responsibility among believers. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) begins by declaring "A Muslim is a brother of another Muslim" - this establishes an unbreakable spiritual bond that transcends blood relations and requires active protection and support.
Prohibition of Oppression
The prohibition against oppression includes both direct harm and indirect complicity. Scholars explain that "nor should he hand him over to an oppressor" means one must not facilitate, enable, or remain silent about injustice against fellow Muslims. This includes both physical oppression and emotional or financial harm.
Divine Reciprocity in Good Deeds
The hadith outlines three specific forms of assistance with corresponding divine rewards: fulfilling needs, relieving discomfort, and protecting dignity. Classical commentators emphasize that Allah's response mirrors the quality and sincerity of the assistance provided. The relief granted on Judgment Day will be proportional to the relief offered in worldly life.
The Concept of Screening (Sitr)
"Whoever screened a Muslim" refers to concealing another's faults and protecting their honor. Scholars explain this includes not exposing sins, defending reputation, and maintaining confidentiality. The divine screening on Judgment Day means Allah will conceal the believer's shortcomings and protect them from humiliation before the entire creation.
Practical Application
This hadith from the Book of Oppressions teaches that Islamic brotherhood requires active intervention against injustice, proactive assistance to those in need, and preservation of communal dignity. The reciprocal nature of the rewards demonstrates Allah's perfect justice and mercy in dealing with His servants based on how they treat one another.