🌟 The Rights of Neighbors in Islam – A Forgotten Sunnah
Assalamu Alaikum Steemit Family,
Today I want to share an important Islamic topic that is often neglected in our daily lives — the rights of neighbors. In a time when people hardly know who lives next door, Islam teaches us to care, protect, and respect those who live around us.
🕋 What Does Islam Say About Neighbors?
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized the rights of neighbors so much that he said:
“Jibreel kept advising me about the neighbor until I thought he would make him an heir.”
(Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
This shows how high Islam places the neighbor in one’s social circle — almost like family.
🌿 Types of Neighbors
Islam recognizes 3 types of neighbors:
- A Muslim neighbor and a relative – They have 3 rights over you: neighbor’s right, Muslim’s right, and blood relation.
- A Muslim neighbor (not a relative) – They have 2 rights: neighbor’s and Muslim’s right.
- A non-Muslim neighbor – They still have 1 full right: as a neighbor.
Islam does not teach us to harm or ignore a non-Muslim neighbor. Rather, it teaches justice, kindness, and respect.
💡 How Should We Treat Our Neighbors?
Greet them kindly
Do not harm them (even with noise or bad smells)
Help them in their time of need
Share food or happiness
Hide their faults
Never spy on them
Avoid throwing garbage or making noise that disturbs them
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“He is not a believer who fills his stomach while his neighbor goes hungry.”
(Musnad Ahmad)
🚨 Today’s Reality
Sadly, many of us live side by side but remain strangers. Some even hurt their neighbors through loud music, garbage, or harsh words.
This is not the way of a true Muslim.
🌟 Let’s Revive This Sunnah
Dear readers, let’s bring back this beautiful sunnah of honoring and protecting our neighbors. It may seem small, but in the sight of Allah, it is great worship.
Even a smile, a greeting, or helping with a small favor can build brotherhood and love in society.
🕌 A Small Action Plan
Say Salam to your neighbor today
Ask if they need any help
Avoid anything that causes them trouble
If possible, send a small gift or food dish
May Allah guide us all to fulfill the rights of our neighbors, and make us true followers of the Prophet’s ﷺ teachings. Ameen.
🖋️ Written by @nomanwrites
