He who believes in Allah and the Last Day does not harm is neighbour, and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day shows hospitality to his guest and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day speaks good or remains silent.
The Book of Faith - Sahih Muslim 47b
This noble hadith from Sahih Muslim's Book of Faith contains profound wisdom connecting true faith with practical conduct toward others. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) establishes three fundamental principles that demonstrate genuine belief in Allah and the Last Day.
Harmlessness Toward Neighbors
The first injunction prohibits harming one's neighbor, encompassing all forms of injury - physical, verbal, or through property. Classical scholars emphasize that "neighbor" includes those of all faiths within approximately forty houses in all directions. True faith manifests as careful avoidance of causing distress or damage to those living nearby.
Hospitality to Guests
The second characteristic is generous hospitality. Scholars explain this involves welcoming guests warmly, providing food and comfort for at least three days as the sunnah teaches. This reflects the believer's generosity and recognition that provisions come from Allah, fostering community bonds and fulfilling the rights others have upon us.
Guarded Speech
The final teaching concerns speech regulation. Scholars interpret this as either speaking beneficial words or maintaining silence. Harmful speech includes lying, backbiting, slander, and vain talk. Imam Al-Nawawi comments that this single principle, if properly implemented, would suffice for most spiritual perfection, as most sins originate from the tongue.
Interconnected Virtues
These three injunctions are interconnected manifestations of complete faith. They transform abstract belief into tangible social ethics. The repetition of "he who believes in Allah and the Last Day" emphasizes that these are not mere social conventions but essential expressions of genuine faith that will be accounted for on the Day of Judgment.