WITH THE NEIGHBOUR

The Quran instructs believers: “Be kind to your close neighbour, your distant neighbour, your companion by your side, and the traveller.” (Quran, 4:36)

This detailed mention of different types of neighbours shows that good conduct is obligatory toward all neighbours—whether they live nearby or far, whether the relationship is temporary or permanent, whether the neighbour is next door or someone you travel with or study or work alongside. Whenever and wherever a person comes into contact with another, it is necessary to uphold their human rights and avoid giving any reason for complaint. A Muslim must be a good neighbour on an individual level and, on a broader level, must also prove to be a good neighbour as a member of society or nation.

The Prophet of Islam said: “By the One in whose hand is my soul, a person cannot be a true believer until he loves for his neighbour—or his brother—what he loves for himself.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 45)

In another narration: “He will not enter Paradise whose neighbour is not safe from his harm.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 46)

In a separate hadith, it is reported: “The best companion in the sight of God is the one who is best to his companion, and the best neighbour in the sight of God is the one who is best to his neighbour.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith No. 1944)

The Prophet also said: “Whoever believes in God should not harm his neighbour.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 6018)

And again: “Whoever believes in God should honour his neighbour.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 6019)