In the Name of Allāh.
In Islām, the treatment of neighbors, regardless of their faith, is considered a fundamental aspect of good character and moral conduct. This concept is encapsulated in the phrase “Birr al-Jār,” which translates to “righteousness towards neighbor.” Imām Qurṭubī (Raḥimahullāh) said: “Kind treatment of neighbors is enjoined and is recommended, whether they are Muslim or a Kāfir, and this is the right thing to do.” [Tafsīr Al-Qurṭubī 4:38]
The importance of good treatment of neighbors is highlighted in numerous Aḥadīth of the Prophet (ﷺ), such as the one narrated by Abu Shurayḥ reported: The Prophet (ﷺ) said three times, “By Allāh, he does not have faith!” It was said, “Who is it, O Messenger of Allāh?” The Prophet said, “He whose neighbor is not safe from his harm.” [Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 6016] Also, Abu Hurayrah reported: The Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) said, “He will not enter Paradise whose neighbor is not secure from his evil.” [Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 46]
Notably, this kindness towards neighbors does not include aiding them in their religions (when they are non-Muslims) or in activities that are sinful or against the teachings of Islām. We should remember, that this kindness must not compromise our religious principles. Some Muslims also wrongly say, “humanity first.” No! Islām first, because it’s Islām that commands the nice treatment of not just humans but also animals.
Verily, Islām strongly discourages participating in any type of sinful or harmful behavior, even if it is under the guise of neighborliness or friendship. In such instances, Allāh already told us to say: “To you be your religion and to me my religion (Islāmic Monotheism).” [Sūrah Al-Kafirūn (109): 6]
In conclusion, as Muslims, we are called to be kind, considerate, and respectful to our neighbors, as a way of building strong and harmonious communities, regardless of their faith, while also maintaining our own moral and religious convictions.
I beseech Allāh to guide us to be good neighbors, spreading love and harmony within our communities and bringing honor to the beautiful teachings of Islām. Aameen
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