Rights of Neighbours in Islam – The Forgotten Duties
A peaceful and civilized society is not built through wealth or technology, but through the values of kindness, empathy, and respect among people. Islam, being a complete way of life, beautifully balances both spiritual and social responsibilities. One of the most important — yet often forgotten — relationships in modern life is the relationship with one’s neighbours.
Today, in our busy routines and digital world, we often do not even know who lives next door. Yet Islam places the rights of neighbours so high that they are directly linked to faith (Iman) and good character (Akhlaq). The Qur’an and Sunnah clearly teach that honouring neighbours is not optional — it is a duty, an act of worship, and a sign of true belief.
Let’s rediscover what Islam teaches about neighbours and how we can revive these forgotten duties (bhoolay hue faraiz) to strengthen our Islamic society (Islami Muashra).
Qur’anic Guidance on Neighbour Rights
The Holy Qur’an emphasizes kindness, justice, and compassion as the foundation of all relationships. In Surah An-Nisa (4:36), Allah Almighty commands:
“Worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and be good to parents, relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbour, the distant neighbour, the companion by your side, the traveller, and those whom your right hands possess.”
(Surah An-Nisa 4:36)
This verse beautifully connects the worship of Allah with good conduct towards people, showing that spirituality in Islam is inseparable from social ethics.
According to scholars, there are two types of neighbours:
- The near neighbour (Al-Jār Dhil-Qurbā) – a relative who lives nearby.
- The distant neighbour (Al-Jār Al-Junub) – a non-relative living nearby.
Islam teaches kindness and fairness towards both. Whether Muslim or non-Muslim, rich or poor, close or distant — every neighbour deserves respect, safety, and care.
This is how Islam envisions a true community — where faith is expressed through compassion, and where people live not as strangers but as protectors of one another.
Teachings of the Prophet ﷺ About Neighbours
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ gave countless lessons about the rights and respect of neighbours.
Abdullah ibn Umar (RA) reported that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
“Jibreel (Gabriel) continued to advise me about the neighbour until I thought he would make him my heir.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim)
This hadith shows the extraordinary status of neighbours — so important that the Prophet ﷺ thought they might even share inheritance rights.
The Prophet ﷺ also said:
“By Allah, he does not believe… whose neighbour is not safe from his harm.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari: 6016)
This powerful statement links faith directly to behaviour. A person who hurts, disrespects, or ignores his neighbour cannot claim to have perfect Iman.
He ﷺ also said:
“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should honour his neighbour.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari: 6018)
Honouring a neighbour means to respect them, help them, protect them from harm, and share in their happiness and sorrow.
Even a simple act — like sharing food — is an act of worship. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“O Muslim women! Do not think little of any gift to your neighbour, even if it is only a piece of a sheep’s hoof.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim)
This shows how Islam transforms even the smallest gestures into deeds of great reward.
Practical Ways to Honour Neighbours
Islamic teachings are practical, not theoretical. They guide us in our everyday life. The following are some ways to fulfil the rights of neighbours:
- Greet them warmly and maintain friendly communication.
- Offer help in times of sickness, sadness, or difficulty.
- Share food and celebrate joyful occasions together.
- Avoid harm, such as loud noise, arguments, or gossip.
- Protect their privacy and never interfere in their personal matters.
- Be patient with their shortcomings and forgive mistakes.
- Be supportive during emergencies or times of need.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Do not think little of any good deed, even if it is meeting your brother with a cheerful face.”
(Sahih Muslim)
Small acts like smiling, helping, or checking on your neighbour can make a huge difference — building love, trust, and peace in your community.
Challenges in Modern Society
Today, we live in a time when tall walls and digital screens have divided hearts. People often have hundreds of online friends but no real connection with those who live just a few feet away.
This social disconnection is one of the major challenges of modern life. When neighbours stop caring for each other, the warmth and unity of an Islamic society (Islami Muashra) begin to fade.
Materialism and self-centeredness have replaced compassion with competition. Many people think being “private” means being uninvolved. But Islam teaches otherwise: believers are like one body — if one part suffers, the whole body feels the pain.
Reviving the rights of neighbours is not just a social need — it is a spiritual responsibility that brings back mercy, empathy, and harmony.
Consequences of Ignoring Neighbour Rights
The Prophet ﷺ strongly warned against neglecting or harming neighbours. A person may pray, fast, and give charity, yet still be held accountable if he mistreats his neighbour.
The effects of neglect include:
Loss of peace and trust in the community
Growth of jealousy, resentment, and hatred
Weakening of faith and good morals
Breakdown of unity and compassion
Islam teaches that true faith is reflected not in rituals alone, but in good conduct with people. The Prophet ﷺ said that the best believers are those who are best to their neighbours.
Even if your neighbour is not Muslim, Islam commands kindness and justice towards them. The Prophet ﷺ treated all neighbours — Muslim or non-Muslim — with respect, honesty, and mercy.
Guidelines for Revival and Action
Reviving this forgotten Sunnah is easy — it starts with sincerity and small efforts. Here’s how we can begin:
- Introduce yourself to your neighbours and greet them regularly.
- Visit them during illness or times of loss.
- Share food or small gifts occasionally to build connection.
- Avoid behaviour that causes disturbance, like noise or parking issues.
- Offer help in emergencies and support in difficulties.
- Be the first to make peace if any misunderstanding occurs.
- Pray for them — both Muslim and non-Muslim neighbours.
When Muslims start practising these small actions, their streets, apartments, and towns will become symbols of Islamic character (Akhlaq) and mercy.
Conclusion
The rights of neighbours in Islam are among the most beautiful and practical teachings of our faith. From the Qur’an to the Sunnah, Islam reminds us that true belief (Iman) is incomplete without good manners (Akhlaq).
When we honour our neighbours, we earn Allah’s pleasure, strengthen our community, and spread the peace that Islam stands for. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“A good neighbour is a blessing from Allah.”
Let us strive to be that blessing — spreading peace, kindness, and love in our surroundings.
Faith is not limited to prayer and fasting; it shines through our daily behaviour. When we care for our neighbours, we live the true message of Islam — a message of mercy, unity, and compassion.
May Allah enable us to revive these forgotten duties and make our neighbourhoods a reflection of the beauty of Islam.
Ameen.
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