A Muslim is the brother of a fellow-Muslim. He should neither commit oppression upon him nor ruin him, and he who meets the need of a brot'ier, Allah would meet big needs, and he who relieved a Muslim from hardship Allah would relieve him from the hardships to which he would be put on the Day of Resurrection, and he who did not expose (the follies of a Muslim) Allah would conceal his follies on the Day of Resurrection.
The Book of Virtue, Enjoining Good Manners, and Joining of the Ties of Kinship
Sahih Muslim 2580
Hadith Text
A Muslim is the brother of a fellow-Muslim. He should neither commit oppression upon him nor ruin him, and he who meets the need of a brother, Allah would meet his needs, and he who relieved a Muslim from hardship Allah would relieve him from the hardships to which he would be put on the Day of Resurrection, and he who did not expose (the follies of a Muslim) Allah would conceal his follies on the Day of Resurrection.
Commentary on Brotherhood
This noble hadith establishes the sacred bond of Islamic brotherhood that transcends blood relations. The Prophet (peace be upon him) declared every Muslim as the brother of another, creating a spiritual kinship that carries mutual rights and responsibilities. This brotherhood requires abstaining from all forms of oppression (zulm) - whether physical, emotional, or financial - and prohibits causing any harm or ruin to another Muslim's life, property, or reputation.
Divine Reciprocity in Good Deeds
The hadith illustrates the principle of divine recompense where Allah's treatment of a servant corresponds to the servant's treatment of others. Helping a Muslim brother in need guarantees Allah's assistance in one's own needs. Relieving a believer's worldly hardships earns divine relief from the tremendous hardships of Judgment Day. This demonstrates Islam's emphasis on practical compassion and mutual support within the community.
Concealing Faults and Divine Protection
The final portion teaches the virtue of covering others' faults rather than exposing them. Scholars explain that this includes avoiding gossip, backbiting, and publicizing sins. The reward is magnificent - Allah will conceal one's own faults on the Day of Judgment when all secrets are revealed. This encourages maintaining the honor and dignity of fellow Muslims and fosters an environment of mercy and forgiveness within the ummah.