|
Up
to Seven Doors Away
The Qur’an tells us that all of
mankind is descended from one couple, Adam and Eve. Thus we are all
brothers and sisters, and our differences in languages and colors
are but a mercy that we might know one another. Language and race
should never be a reason for discriminating against people.
A Muslim should maintain good relations with his relatives, but he
should not unjustly favor them over others. Further, a Muslim must
be good to his neighbors, no matter their religion. But the Prophet
(peace and blessings be upon him) taught us that a “neighbor” is not
just the one next door but includes all those up to seven doors away
- effectively a whole neighborhood.
This concern for our neighbors can take many forms. It means to
ensure that our neighbors have the basic necessities, for a Muslim
should not eat if his or her neighbor is going hungry. It means that
Muslims should wish for their neighbors what they wish for
themselves. It means sharing their happiness and sorrow. Further, it
means to not spy on them and respect their privacy, to not gossip
about them, to not harm them in any way, and to keep common use
areas — such as apartment building entrances, streets and sidewalks
— clean.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) was told of a
woman who prayed and fasted a lot and gave alms generously, but
whose neighbors complained of her abusive tongue. He said that she
would be in Hellfire. When he was told of another woman who did not
do all those extra acts of worship but whose neighbors were happy
with her, he said that she would be in Paradise . Thus we see the
importance of being good to our neighbors, both in actions and
words.
|
What is Islam
What is Quran
Who is Muhammad
Introduction to
Hajj
Human Rights and
Justice in Islam
What About Those
Muslim Women?
Freedom of
Economic Activity
The Chlorophyll
Life After Death
Neighbors
How can Islam be
the religion of peace?
 |
