Maintaining strong bonds with neighbours and blood relatives is a cornerstone of Islamic ethics, shaping both individual character and the fabric of society. Islam teaches that true faith is reflected not only in worship but also in how we treat those closest to us—our families and neighbours. In a world often marked by isolation and disconnection, these teachings offer timeless guidance for building compassionate, resilient communities.
The Islamic View: Why Neighbours and Blood Relations Matter
Islam places extraordinary emphasis on the rights and responsibilities we owe to our relatives and neighbours. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) repeatedly stressed these duties, and the Qur’an contains clear commands regarding their importance. These relationships are not merely social conventions but are deeply spiritual obligations, intertwined with a believer’s faith and standing before Allah (SWT).
Quranic Guidance on Neighbours and Kinship
“Worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good, and to relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbor, the neighbor farther away, the companion at your side, the traveler, and those whom your right hands possess. Indeed, Allah does not like those who are self-deluding and boastful.”
(Qur’an 4:36)
This verse establishes a hierarchy of kindness, beginning with parents and extending to relatives and neighbours, regardless of their faith or proximity.
“And those who join that which Allah has ordered to be joined and fear their Lord and are afraid of the evil of [their] account.”
(Qur’an 13:21)
Here, the Qur’an praises those who maintain family ties, indicating that severing such bonds is a grave sin.
Prophetic Teachings: Hadith on Neighbours and Relatives
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“Jibril (Gabriel) kept advising me concerning the neighbour to the point that I thought he would inherit (from his neighbour).”
(Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)
This hadith highlights the extraordinary status neighbours hold in Islam, almost akin to family.
He (ﷺ) also said:
“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should be kind to his neighbour.”
(Sahih Muslim)
And regarding kinship:
“Whoever wants an increase in his sustenance and that the marks of his feet remain for a long time in the world (i.e., to live long) – he should be kind and helpful to his relatives.”
(Sahih Bukhari, narrated by Anas (RA))
Rights and Duties: What Islam Teaches
Towards Neighbours
Islamic teachings on neighbours are profound and comprehensive:
- Greet and check on them regularly.
- Visit them when they are ill and offer condolences in times of grief.
- Share food and happiness, and help in times of need.
- Avoid causing harm, whether through actions, words, or neglect.
- Respect their privacy and guard their secrets.
- Extend kindness regardless of their religion or background.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“He who is well-fed, with his neighbour starving, is not a (true) believer.”
(Al-Sunan al-Kubra, Bayhaqi)
Towards Blood Relations
Islamic guidance on family ties (silat al-rahm) is equally clear:
- Visit, call, and support relatives, especially in hardship.
- Share in their happiness and console them in grief.
- Give charity to needy relatives before others.
- Avoid backbiting, jealousy, and competition.
- Always be a well-wisher and seek to strengthen bonds.
“Preserving the bonds of kinship is deemed an essential part of the Islamic faith. It is an obligation to be fulfilled without an eye for reciprocity.”
Sharing Joys and Bearing Griefs: The Social Fabric of Islam
Islam encourages Muslims to be present in each other’s lives, not just in times of happiness but also in moments of sorrow. Attending weddings, visiting the sick, offering condolences, and sharing meals are all acts that strengthen these bonds. Such gestures foster trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging, which are vital for a cohesive community.
Consequences of Neglect or Harm
The Qur’an and Sunnah warn against neglecting or harming neighbours and relatives. Severing family ties is described as a cause for Allah’s curse and a reason for being deprived of His mercy. Causing harm to neighbours, whether through direct action or neglect, is considered a major sin.
“But refuse (to supply) (even) neighbor’s needs.”
(Qur’an 107:7)“The best of neighbors in the sight of Allah is the best of them towards his neighbor.”
(Jami’ al-Tirmidhi)
Common Questions About Neighbours and Blood Relations in Islam
1. Who qualifies as a neighbour in Islam?
A neighbour is not just the person living next door but includes up to forty houses in all directions, encompassing a broad community.
2. What are the consequences of severing family ties in Islam?
Severing ties is a grave sin, leading to Allah’s curse and distance from His mercy, as stated in Qur’an 13:25 and authentic hadith.
3. How should Muslims treat non-Muslim neighbours?
Islam commands kindness and justice to all neighbours, regardless of their faith.
4. What if relatives or neighbours are difficult or hostile?
Muslims are encouraged to uphold good conduct, patience, and forgiveness, striving to maintain ties even if the other party is unresponsive or negative.
5. How can one practically maintain these relationships in a busy modern life?
Simple acts like regular calls, sharing food, attending important events, and offering help in times of need all count as fulfilling these duties.
Applying These Teachings Today
In today’s fast-paced, often fragmented societies, the Islamic emphasis on neighbours and kinship provides a blueprint for social harmony. Modern Muslims can apply these teachings by:
- Building supportive networks within their communities.
- Reaching out to isolated neighbours or relatives.
- Using technology to stay connected and offer help.
- Being proactive in resolving disputes and promoting reconciliation.
- Participating in community service and interfaith activities.
Key Takeaways
Islam’s teachings on neighbours and blood relations are not mere rituals but profound ethical imperatives. They nurture empathy, solidarity, and peace—values desperately needed in our times. By honouring these relationships, Muslims not only fulfill a central aspect of their faith but also contribute to the well-being of society at large.
Let us reflect on the words of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ):
“None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.”
(Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)
May we strive to embody these teachings, strengthening the bonds of kinship and neighbourliness, and thus draw closer to the mercy and pleasure of Allah (SWT).
