Forty Gems of Beauty — Page 90
90 the generous treatment of neighbours. The truth is that one who does not treat his neighbour well cannot deserve to be called a human being. For man is a civilised being and good neighbourliness is a necessary part of the culture. In the interests of good and strong mutual relations, Islam lays down generous treatment of one’s neighbours and puts so much emphasis on this command that the Holy Prophet (May peace and blessings of Allah be on him) says that Gabriel reminded him of his obligation in this respect so often and so forcefully that he (the Prophet) concluded that he [Gabriel] might declare the neighbour the heir and successor. In light of this peremptory command, it is the duty of every good Muslim to treat his neighbours with uncommon compassion and kindliness, sharing with them their sorrows and their pleasures and looking after their families in their absence. In the matter of good treatment of neighbours, the Holy Prophet (May peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was so particular that he reminded us of this obligation even in regard to minor things, as for instance, in another Hadith, he said that if one cooked meat, he had better make more gravy so that some of it may serve one’s neighbour, should he be in need. In fact, the true standard of a person’s social behaviour is reflected in his treatment of neighbours. With people living far away and with those who meet one now and then, one can simulate good manners as a passing phase. But affectation cannot last long with those whom one contacts constantly. Before long, the cultural level of the man comes to surface in its naked form. The blessed observation of the Holy Prophet (May peace and blessings of Allah be on him) contained in this Hadith is not only a useful means of indirectly disciplining one’s own social behaviour but also is an exhortation to treat one’s neighbours kindly. For only he who is morally good can treat his neighbours well. In order to be able to treat your neighbours kindly, you yourself must become a good fellow indeed, for the false manner of affected morality cannot deceive