Hadith Text

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "A Muslim is a brother of another Muslim. So he should neither oppress him nor hand him over to an oppressor. And whoever fulfilled the needs of his brother, Allah will fulfill his needs."

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 6951

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes the fundamental principle of Islamic brotherhood (ukhuwwah islamiyyah) that transcends blood relations and ethnic ties. The Prophet (ﷺ) declares every Muslim as the brother of another Muslim, creating a spiritual bond stronger than worldly connections.

"Neither oppress him" encompasses all forms of injustice - physical, verbal, financial, or emotional harm. "Nor hand him over to an oppressor" means one must not facilitate, support, or remain silent when witnessing oppression against a fellow Muslim.

The concluding portion reveals the divine reciprocity: assisting others in their needs - whether religious or worldly - becomes a means for Allah to assist the helper in their own needs. This encompasses both worldly provisions and spiritual blessings in this life and the Hereafter.

As Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments in Fath al-Bari: "This hadith contains the obligation of preserving Muslim rights and emphasizes the importance of mutual assistance, reflecting the completeness of faith."

Practical Applications

• Defending fellow Muslims against slander and injustice

• Providing financial assistance to those in need

• Offering emotional support and counsel

• Intervening to prevent oppression when capable

• Seeking lawful means to fulfill others' needs as an act of worship