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T h e S t a t u s o f t h e N e i g h b o u r s i n I s l a m

The Status of the Neighbours in Islam

Compiled ByMuhammad Gaffer Ibn Abdul Goffur

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In The Name of Allah,the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

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"And your Lord said: "Invoke Me, [i.e. believe in My Oneness (Islamic Monotheism)] (and ask Me for anything) I will respond to your (invocation). Verily! Those who scorn My worship [i.e. do not invoke Me, and do not believe in My Oneness, (Islamic Monotheism)] they will surely enter Hell in humiliation!"

[Surah Ghafir 40:60]

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"Is not He (better than your gods) Who responds to the distressed one, when he calls Him, and Who removes the evil, and makes you inheritors of the earth, generations after generations. Is there any ilah (god) with Allah? Little is that you remember!"

[Surah An-Naml 27:62]

The Amir al-Mu'minin Abu Hafs 'Umar ibn al-Khattab (ra) said:

"I heard the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) saying, 'Actions are only by intentions, and each man has only that which he intends. Whoever's emigration is for Allah and His

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Messenger, then his emigration is for Allah and His Messenger. Whoever's emigration is for some worldly gain which he can acquire or a woman he will marry, then his emigration is for that which he emigrates."

[al-Bukhari & Muslim]

Mentioned With

Transliteration

Meaning

Allah's Name Subhanahu wa ta'ala

He is exalted above weakness and indignity

Allah's Name 'Azza wa-Jal He is exalted and glorified

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Allah's Name Jalla Jalaluh Exalted is His glory

Prophet Muhammad

Salla 'Llahu 'alayhi wa sallam

May Allah's peace and blessings be on him

Prophets and Angels

'Alayh is-Salam

Peace be on him

A Male Companion

Radiya 'Llahu 'anhu

May Allah be pleased with him

A Female Companion

Radiya 'Llahu 'anha

May Allah be pleased with her

Two Companion

Radiya 'Llahu 'anhuma

May Allah be pleased with them

More Than Two Companions

Radiya 'Llahu 'anhum

May Allah be pleased with them

A Past Scholar or Righteous Muslim

Rahimahu 'Llah

May Allah have mercy on him

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AcknowledgementAll Praise and thanks be to Allah! We praise and thank Him, ask Him for His Help and Forgiveness, and we seek refuge in Allah from the evils of our souls and the mischief of our deeds. He whom Allah guides will not be misled, and he whom Allah misleads will never have a guide. I testify that there is no deity but Allah alone, without any partners, and that Muhammad is His 'Abd (worshiper) and Messenger.

Putting together a work of this nature is a monumental task that obviously takes more effort than that of a translator and editor. As is always, to mention all those who aided me with their various input would be an equally lengthy task. But, of course, a few people stand out for their significant commitment in making this book a success. Special thanks to my Parents, Wife & Khayer Uncle.

Of course, first and last, all praise and thanks are due to Allah (SWT), may He (AWJ) forgive us for any mistakes and show us the right path. Aameen.

Muhammad Gaffer Ibn Abdul GoffurMay 21, 2014

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IntroductionIslam is a religion of justice to all mankind. Actually, not only the Muslims but the entire humanity is blessed with and enough fortunate to have a great teacher called, Muhammad, peace and blessings of the Allah be upon him. The All-Mighty, Exalted be He, said:

"And We have sent you (O Muhammad pbuh) not but as a mercy for the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)." Al-Qur'an 21:107

According to the verse above, it is clearly understood that the Prophet (pbuh) is a teacher for both Muslims and Non-Muslims. It is narrated by Jabir bin Abdullah that, the Prophet (pbuh) said:

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".....Every Prophet used to be sent to his nation only, But I have been sent to all mankind." Sahih Al-Bukhari

Although we are living in a community where people are from different Faiths (religions), but it is strictly prohibited to prefer one over another when it is about justice, and harm anyone without any valid reason, either Muslims or Non-Muslims. We always need to maintain justice and respect to each other. As the All-Mighty, Exalted be He, said:

"Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masakin (the poor), the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess. Verily, Allah does not like such as are proud and boastful." Al-Qur'an 4:36

The All-Mighty, Exalted be He, is the sole controller of everything, He only decides, who will be our neighbours, as He stated in the Qur'an:

"If the hypocrites, and those in whose hearts is a disease (evil desire for adultery, etc.), and those who spread false news among the people in Al-Madinah, cease not, We shall

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certainly let you overpower them, then they will not be able to stay in it as your neighbours but a little while." Al-Qur'an 33:60

And it is our duty not to harm any of our neighbours, nor to make any mockery of them even if they are from different Faiths (religions). Allah, Exalted be He, said:

"And insult not those whom they (disbelievers) worship besides Allah, lest they insult Allah wrongfully without knowledge. Thus We have made fair-seeming to each people its own doings; then to their Lord is their return and He shall then inform them of all that they used to do." Al-Qur'an 6:108

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Who are the NeighboursWe live in a community where people are sometimes from the same Faith (religion) and sometimes are from different Faiths (religions) all together. Neighbours' have greater rights one over another. Thus, we cannot simply deny or ignore this significant subject especially being a Muslim, and there is no room especially for the Muslims to be oblivious and ignorant regarding the issues of the Neighbours. Therefore, being a true believer it is must for us to know of neighbours status and rights in the Islam.

"Al-Hasan (al-Basri) was asked about the neighbour, and said: "The neighbour includes the forty houses front of a person, the forty houses behind him, the forty houses on his right, and the forty houses on his left." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

Although, we individually are includes by forty houses front, left, right, and behind as neighbours but when it is about the priority, then

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the closer neighbour has more priority than the more distant ones.

Aisha (radiAllahu anha) said: "I said, 'Messenger of Allah! I have two neighbours. To which of them should I give my gifts? He said, 'To the one whose door is nearer to you.'' Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

And, Abu Hurayra (radiAllahu anhu) said: "One

should not begin with his more distant neighbours before the nearer ones. Rather one should begin with his nearer neighbours before the more distant ones." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

Neighbours in the light of the Noble Qur'anAllah, Exalted be He, stated:

"Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masakin (the poor), the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your

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side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess. Verily, Allah does not like such as are proud and boastful.'' Al-Qur'an 4:36

It is stated in Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Vol 2, Surah An-Nisa, Verse 36, {"the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger", Ali Ibn Abi Talha said that, "the neighbour who is near of kin", means, "The neighbour who is also a relative'' [At-Tabari 8:335] while, "The neighbour who is a stranger' means", 'Who is not a relative." At-Tabari 8:338

It was also reported that 'Ikrimah, Mujahid, Maymun bin Mihran, Ad-Dhahak, Zayd bin Aslam, Muqatil bin Hayyan and Qatadah said similarly." At-Tabari 8:335-336

Mujahid was also reported to have said that Allah's statement, "the neighbour who is a stranger" means, "The companion during travel." [At-Tabari 8:341]}

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Status of the Neighbours in the light of IslamThe status of the neighbours in Islam is highly ranked up by the commandments of the All-Mighty, exalted be He, and by His Messenger (pbuh). If we are unaware of this subject, then there is highly possibility to be amongst one of the losers in this life as well as in the life of the Hereafter. Aisha (radiAllahu anha) said that the Prophet (pbuh) said:

"Jibril, peace be upon him, kept on enjoining me to treat neighbours well until I thought that he would make them heirs." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

It is also stated that, Jabir said: "A man came to the Prophet (pbuh) to

complain to him about the enmity of his neighbour, while he was sitting between the Corner [of the Ka'ba where the Black Stone is situated] and the Maqam, [of Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him] the Prophet (pbuh) passed in the company of a man wearing a white garment. He saw them

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standing near the Maqam where the people pray over the dead. When the Prophet (pbuh) turned (to him), he asked, 'My mother and father be your ransom, Messenger of Allah! Who was the man I saw with you wearing the white garment?' The Prophet (pbuh) asked, 'Did you see him?' The man said, 'yes.' He said, 'Then you have seen much good. That was Jibril, peace be upon him, the Messenger of my Lord. Over and over he commanded that he would make a share for them in the inheritance." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

It is also stated that part of the Imaan, believing in the All-Mighty and the Last Day is also related with the manners toward the neighbours. Abu Shurayh al-Khuza'i said that the Prophet (pbuh) said:

"Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should be good to his neighbour. Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should be generous to his guest. Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should say what is good or be silent." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

And, many of a believers shall be held to account on the Day of Judgement regarding the issues of the neighbours. Ibn Umar said:

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"There was a time when no one had a better right to a Muslim's money than his brother Muslim. Nowadays people love their dirhams and dinars more than their brother Muslim. I heard the Prophet (pbuh) say, 'Many a man will be held [to account] on the Day of Judgement by his neighbour calling, "Our Lord! This man closed his door to me and denied me human kindness." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

We need to love our neighbours it is because, Allah, Exalted be He, loves the one who is good towards his neighbours. Abdullah b. Amr b. al-As said:

"The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, 'The best of my Companions in the eyes of Allah the Exalted is the One who is the best to his Companions. The best of neighbours in the eyes of Allah is the one who is the best towards his neighbours.'' Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

Moreover, it is stated that we also need to maintain a communication with the neighbours in a way that we may get to know their troubles, and needs in terms of lend them our hands. True believer cannot be such ignorant of his neighbours difficulties and poverty, while he is living a life of ease and plenty. In this generation,

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people have become much ignorant than ever regarding the matters of maintaining the ties with neighbours, as a result, many times it is found that people from the neighbours are already died long before but we are unaware of that matter, let alone to have communication so often. Whereas, Ibn Abbas (radiAllahu anhu) said:

"I heard the Prophet (pbuh) say, 'That a man who filled his belly while his neighbour is hungry is not a believer." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of the Allah be upon him, commanded us to share the goodness among the neighbours. Unless we follow the commandments of the Prophet (pbuh) regarding the neighbours, we only not rejecting the followings of the sunnah but the part of the Imaaan as well as happiness too. Abu Dharr said:

"The Prophet (pbuh) said, 'Abu Dharr! If you cook a broth, add water to it and fulfil your duty to your neighbours (or share it among your neighbours)." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

*Ibn Hajar Al-Ashqalani commented on this hadith that, this ruling is to be treated as compulsory if the neighbour is poor. But if one's neighbour is rich, then this ruling is to be treated as a matter of preference. The Prophet (pbuh) stated, 'Whenever Gabriel came to me, he

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persistently kept emphasizing on the rights of one's neighbour- to such an extent that it led me into thinking perhaps a neighbour may be decided as the inheritor of one's legacy.' Bulugh Al-Maram by Ibn Hajar Al-AshqalaniIt is also stated that Nafi b. Abd al-Harith said:

"The Prophet (pbuh) said, 'Part of the happiness of Muslim man includes a spacious dwelling, a good neighbour and a good mount." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

When we are sharing goodness with the neighbours, we should maintain the equivalence. Neighbours are may from different Faiths (religions), but we need have the communication with all the neighbours without exception. It is stated that, Mujahid said:

'I was with Abdullah b. Amr when his servant was skinning a sheep. He said, 'Boy! When you finish, start with our Jewish neighbour.' A man there said, 'Jewish! (in surprise) May Allah correct you! Abdullah replied, 'I heard the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) recommending that we treat our neighbours well- to the point that we feared- or "we thought" - that he would make them heirs." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

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In other way, with the goodness, we also can share gift with the neighbours, as it is also commanded by the Prophet (pbuh). Hawwa bint Yazid b. Sakan said:

The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, 'Believing women! Do not let any of you women disdain her neighbour's gift, even if it is only a burnt sheep's hoof.'' Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

It is also stated in other wordings, that Abu Hurayra (radiAllahu anhu) said:

"The Prophet (pbuh) said, 'Muslim women! A woman should not disdain her woman neighbour's gift, even if it is only a sheep's hoof." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

Islam gives such a high status to the neighbours that many of a believer shall be held to account on the day of Judgement related to the issues of neighbours. It is not only the part of Imaan, believing in the Allah and Last Day but many of a believers shall be granted their final above either the Garden or the Fire, depending upon the issues related to the neighbours. Many people are completely unaware to the status of the neighbours in Islam, and ignorantly they fall into the trap of the devils, and do not maintain the

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rights of the neighbours at all. Abu Hurayra (radiAllahu anhu) said:

"The Prophet (pbuh) was asked, Messenger of Allah, Such and such a woman prays in the night, fasts in the day, acts accordingly and gives sadaqa, yet through her tongue she hurts her neighbours.' The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, 'There is no good in her. She is one of the people of Fire.

They said, 'Another woman prays the prescribed prayers, gives bits of curd as sadaqa and does not harm anyone.' The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, She is one of the people of the Garden." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

And, it is also stated that, Abu Hurayra (radiAllahu anhu) said:

"The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, 'A person whose neighbours are not safe from his evil will not enter the Garden." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

In other report, it is narrated by Abdullah Ibn Mas'ud that,

"Allah's Messenger (pbuh) said, 'Allah Most High has allotted you your characters just as He has allotted you your provisions. Allah

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Most High gives worldly things to those who He loves and those whom He does not love, but He gives religion only to those whom He loves, so he who is given religion by Allah has been loved by Him. By Him in Whose hand my soul is, a man is not a Muslim till his heart and tongues are submissive, and he is not a believer till his neighbour is safe from injurious behaviour on his part." Ahmad, Bayhaqi, Shu'ab al-Iman, Al-Tirmidhi

It is not a surprise, but the true Muslim who is a true followers of the Qur'an and Sunnah, is much more humble and tolerant towards his neighbours. It is strictly prohibited to harm neighbours in anyway. It is enough to destroy one's This and the Hereafter life, unless they are well aware of the neighbours rights and status in Islam. Thawban said:

"If two men break off with each other for longer than three days and one of them dies, (it means that) both die while relations between them remain severed, then both of them are ruined. And he that wrongs his neighbours to the extent that he forces him so far that he drives him from his home is destroyed." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

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It is also stated in a hadith that, Umara b. Ghurab related that......Aisha (radiAllahu anha) related..... (part of the hadith),

"...a pet sheep of our neighbour's came in and stole away with loaf. I was very upset and got up and chased it to the door. The Prophet, (pbuh), woke up, and said, "Take what you have left of your loaf and do not hurt your neighbour because of his sheep." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

Many people harm neighbours especially when the neighbours are from different Faiths (religions), ignorantly not knowing that the neighbours in Islam have a unique sanctity and there is no room for a believer to treat neighbours unjustly with hatred. Many people are cursed due to their bad attitudes towards the neighbours. Abu Hurayra (radiAllahu anhu) said:

"A man said, 'Messenger of Allah' I have a neighbour who does harm.' He said, 'Go and take your things out into the road.' The man did so and people gathered round him, asking, 'What's the matter?' He said, 'The neighbour of mine does me harm. I mentioned it to the Messenger of Allah (pbuh). He told me, "Take your things out into the road." They began to say, 'O Allah,

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curse this neighbour! O Allah, disgrace him! When the neighbour heard that, he came out to the other man and said, 'Go back to your house. By Allah, I will not harm you." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

In other report, it is also stated that narrated by Abdullah:

"I asked the Prophet, 'What is the greatest sin in the Sight of Allah?' He said, 'That you set up a rival unto Allah though He alone created you.'' I said, 'That is indeed a great sin.' Then asked, 'What is next?' He said, 'To kill you son lest he should share your food with you.' I asked, 'What is next?' He said, 'To commit illegal sexual intercourse with the wife of your neighbour." Sahih Al-Bukhari

*Ibn Hajar Al-Ashqalani commented on this hadith, that this Hadith alludes to a principle that the major sins, depending on their severity, differ from each other. A sinful act of adultery is forbidden in general, but committing such an act with a neighbour's wife is the most despicable crime.' Bulugh Al-Maram by Ibn Hajar Al-AshqalaniReasonably for a group of so called ignorant Muslims behaviours, we find people from different Faiths (religions) sometimes raising

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fingers at us, claiming that Islam is not a religion which stand for peace and justice. But Islam in fact teaches every things with peace and justice. Those are the guilty who are unaware of their own duties, responsibilities and oblivious of true Islamic teachings. A true believer needs to maintain a solid foundation of justice without exception and be patience and forbearance, and does not bear any grudge for neighbours bad treat or mistakes. As the Prophet (pbuh) said:

"The best amongst you are those who have the best manners and character." Sahih Al-Bukhari

It is also stated that Mutarrif said: "I heard that you have said that the Prophet

(pbuh) said: 'Allah loves three and hates three.,' Abu Dharr said, 'I do not think that I will tell lies about the Messenger of Allah.' Mutarrif said, 'Then who are the three whom Allah loves?' Abu Dharr (quoting the Prophet (pbuh) said, "A man who fights for the sake of Allah, with perseverance and hoping for reward from Him, and fights until he is killed, and you find this in the Book of Allah." Then he recited:

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{Truly Allah loves those who fight in His cause in battle array, as if they were a solid cemented structure.} (Al-Qur'an 61:4)

Mutarrif asked: Then who?" He said, "A man who has a bad neighbour who annoys and disturbs him, but he bears it with patience and forbearance until Allah ends the matter either during his lifetime or upon the death of either of them." Ahmad & Al-Tabarani

In a report, it is also stated that one of the sings of the Hour is that people shall kill their neighbours. Abu Musa said:

"The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, 'The Hour will not come until a man kills his neighbours, his brother and his father." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

True followers of the Qur'an and Sunnah, should be more careful to commit sins when neighbours are concern. It should be taken into the consideration very seriously when sins are about to commit and the neighbours are about to related in that crime, as because committed sins that are neighbours involved or harmed is greater than in general. It does not mean in any way that we should not be serious of the sins that

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are about to commit out of the fold of neighbours. It is stated that,

"Al-Miqdad b. al-Aswad said that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) asked his Companions about fornication and they said: "It is haram (forbidden). Allah and His Messenger have forbidden it." He said, "It is less serious for a man to fornicate with ten women than for him to fornicate with his neighbour's wife."

He asked them about stealing. They replied, "It is haram. Allah and His Messenger have forbidden it." He said, "It is less serious for a man to steal from ten houses than it is for him to steal from his neighbour's house." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

By the mercy of the Most Merciful, Exalted be He, it is now transparent to us that the neighbours have a sanctity and high status in Islam. Being a true believer, we need to be more well aware of Islamic teachings (Qur'an and Sunnah) concerning well treatment towards the neighbours. Fortunately, many of us may have good neighbours, but not at large. It is nothing but a blessings of the All-Mighty, Exalted be He, to those who have good neighbours. As the All-

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Mighty, Exalted be He, stated in the Noble Qur'an said:

"If the hypocrites, and those in whose hearts is a disease (evil desire for adultery, etc.), and those who spread false news among the people in Al-Madinah, cease not, We shall certainly let you overpower them, then they will not be able to stay in it as your neighbours but a little while." Al-Qur'an 33:60

So, Allah considered that the Hypocrites presence in Madinah, made them neighbours. It may happen with us as well. We may have neighbours as well as from hypocrites, those who spread false news, from different Faiths (religions) according to the only wills of the All-Mighty, Exalted be He. It is extremely sensitive matter to have a bad neighbours for a true believer without any doubt, and it may also cause one of the reasons of unhappiness in our life as it is stated that, Nafi b. Abd al-Harith said:

"The Prophet (pbuh) said, 'Part of the happiness of Muslim man includes a spacious dwelling, a good neighbour and a good mount." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

Indeed, a righteous neighbour always do contribute to happiness towards others. In other

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report, it is also stated that Saad Ibn Abi Waqqas (radiAllahu anhu), narrated that our noble Prophet (pbuh) said:

"Four things contribute to happiness: a righteous wife, a spacious home, a righteous neighbour and a comfortable means of transport. And four things contribute to misery: a bad neighbour, a bad wife, a cramped home and bad means of transport." Ibn Hibban

The beloved Prophet (pbuh) defined the bad neighbour is one of the three worst types of people. He stated:

"There are three worst types of people: a ruler, if you do well, does not appreciate it, and if you do wrong, he does not forgive you for it; a bad neighbour who, if he sees something good, he conceals it, and if he sees something bad, he broadcasts it; and a wife who, when you are present, she annoys you and if you go away, she betrays you." Al-Tabarani

Many scholars of Islam, they highly evaluated a good neighbours and considered it as a priceless blessings of the All-Mighty, Exalted be He. So, we constantly need to make du'a (supplication) to

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the All-Mighty, Exalted be He, to bless us through placing with good neighbours and make us from amongst the good neighbours as well. The beloved Prophet (pbuh) taught us everything that shall protect us from the devils plan and lead us to the eternal abode Jannah (Heaven). It is stated that, Abu Hurayra (radiAllahu anhu) said:

"One of the supplications of the Prophet (pbuh) was, "O Allah, I seek refuge with You from a bad neighbours in a permanent home, for a neighbour in the desert can be changed (i.e., moves from one place to another)." Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

Besides of making constant du'a (supplication) to the All-Mighty, Exalted be He, we also need to try our best to be one of the good neighbours as well. It is narrated by Abdur-Rahman Ibn Abu Qurad,

"The Prophet (pbuh) performed ablution one day and his companion began to wipe themselves with the water he had used. The Prophet (pbuh) asked them what induced them to do that, and when they replied that it was love for Allah and His Messenger (pbuh), he said, "If anyone is pleased to love Allah and His Messenger (pbuh), or rather to have Allah and His Messenger (pbuh) love him, he

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should speak the truth when he tells anything, fulfil his trust when he is put in a position of trust, and be a good neighbour." Bayhaqi, Shu'ab al-Iman, Al-Tirmidhi

A true believer always knows that whether his treatment towards his neighbours is well or he is treating them unjustly. In other report, it is stated that Allah's Messenger (pbuh) was asked in this regard, and He said:

"If you hear them saying, 'You have done well,' then you have done well. If you hear them saying, 'You have done evil, then you have done evil." Ahmad

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Some Exceptional CircumstancesAccording to the correct teachings of Islam, being a true believer we always have to be careful when dealing with neighbours, and be most respectful, kind, tolerant, patience, forbearance, considerate towards them. All these manners should be maintained as long as things are not beyond the limit of the Sha'ria [(Islamic law based on the Qur'an and Sunnah (the traditions of the Prophet (pbuh)]. Although Islam gives neighbours a high status, but there are some exceptional circumstances should be taken onto the consideration. I will mention some of them here with Allah's help.

One

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Our neighbours may or may not be from the same Faiths (religions), but if there are from different Faiths (religion), we must be careful of the devils plan, so that we may not start to associating partner with the All-Mighty, Exalted be He, in any means. In the Noble Qur'an, Allah, the Most Beneficent said in many places in order to warn us that:

"Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masakin (the poor), the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess. Verily, Allah does not like such as are proud and boastful;" Al-Qur'an 4:36

And, "Verily, Allah forgives not that partners

should be set up with him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases, and whoever sets up partners with Allah in worship, he has indeed invented a tremendous sin. " Al-Qur'an 4:48

And,

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"Verily! Allah forgives not (the sin of) setting up partners in worship with Him, but He forgives whom he pleases sins other than that, and whoever sets up partners in worship with Allah, has indeed strayed far away." Al-Qur'an 4:116

And, "Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord."

Verily, whosoever sets up partners in worship with Allah, then Allah has forbidden Paradise for him, and the Fire will be his abode. And for the Zalimun (polytheists and wrongdoers) there are no helpers." Al-Qur'an 5:72

And, "Say (O Muhammad (pbuh): "Shall I take as a

Wali (helper, protector, etc.) any other than Allah, the Creator of the heavens and the earth? And it is He Who feeds but is not fed." Say: "Verily, I am commanded to be the first of those who submit themselves to Allah (as Muslims)." And be not you (O Muhammad pbuh) of the Mushrikun [polytheists, pagans, idolaters and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah]." Al-Qur'an 6:14

And,

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"This is the Guidance of Allah with which He guides whomsoever He will of His slaves. But if they had joined in worship others with Allah, all that they used to do would have been of no benefit to them." Al-Qur'an 6:88

There may question arise by some people that what is the relation between the verses stated above and the exceptional circumstances related the issues of neighbours. Let me clear it, Allah, Exalted be He, said in the Qur'an:

"And I (Allah) created not the jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone)." Al-Qur'an 51:56

I am personally experienced that many people misunderstood the deep meanings of this verse. Many people understood that we constantly need to pray (Salaah), but the actual meaning is to 'obey the orders of the All-Mighty, Exalted be He.' Some scholars say that it is means 'to do whatever pleases the All-Mighty and to leave whatever displeases the All-Mighty.' According to the Tafsir Ibn Kathir, meaning, 'I Allah, only created them so that I order them to worship Me, not that I need them.' 'Ali Ibn Abi Talhah reported that Ibn Abbas commented on the Ayah, '....except that they

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should worship Me' meaning, 'so that they worship Me, willingly or unwillingly." 'The meaning of this Ayah is that, Allah, the Exalted, the Blessed, created the creatures so that they worship Him alone without partners. Those who obey Him will be rewarded with the best rewards, while those who disobey Him will receive the worst punishment from Him. Allah stated that He does not need creatures, but rather, they are in need of Him in all conditions. He is alone their Creator and Provider." Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Vol.9, Surah Adh-DhariyatSo, if there anything that which may displease the All-Mighty, Exalted be He, we need to stay away of that kinds.

TwoWhen there is any disputes and people are asking for justice, then justice should be impartially established at any circumstances, whether it is between Muslims and Non-Muslims, or both from same Faiths (religion). Allah, Exalted be He, said:

"O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, be he rich or poor, Allah is a Better

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Protector to both (than you). So follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you may avoid justice, and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well--Acquainted with what you do." Al-Qur'an 4:135

And, "And of those whom We have created, there

is a community who guides (others) with the truth, and establishes justice therewith." Al-Qur'an 7:181

And, ''(They like to) listen to falsehood, to devour

anything forbidden. So if they come to you (O Muhammad pbuh), either judge between them, or turn away from them. If you turn away from them, they cannot hurt you in the least. And if you judge, judge with justice between them. Verily, Allah loves those who act justly. '' Al-Qur'an 5:42

And, ''O you who believe! Stand out firmly for

Allah and be just witnesses and let not the enmity and hatred of others make you avoid justice. Be just: that is nearer to piety, and

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fear Allah. Verily, Allah is Well Acquainted with what you do.'' Al-Qur'an 5:8

And, "Indeed We have sent Our Messengers with

clear proofs, and revealed with them the Scripture and the Balance (justice) that mankind may keep up justice. And We brought forth iron wherein is mighty power (in matters of war), as well as many benefits for mankind, that Allah may test who it is that will help Him (His religion), and His Messengers in the unseen. Verily, Allah is All-Strong, All-Mighty.'' Al-Qur'an 57:25

And, "Say (O Muhammad pbuh): My Lord has

commanded justice and (said) that you should face Him only (i.e. worship none but Allah and face the Qiblah, i.e. the Ka'bah at Makkah during prayers) in each and every place of worship, in prayers (and not to face other false deities and idols), and invoke Him only making your religion sincere to Him by not joining in worship any partner to Him and with the intention that you are doing your deeds for Allah's sake only. As He brought you (into being) in the beginning, so shall you be brought into being (on the Day of

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Resurrection) [in two groups, one as a blessed one (believers), and the other as a wretched one (disbelievers)]." Al-Qur'an 7:29

And, "So unto this (religion of Islam, alone and this

Quran) then invite (people) (O Muhammad SAW), and Istaqim [(i.e. stand firm and straight on Islamic Monotheism by performing all that is ordained by Allah (good deeds, etc.), and by abstaining from all that is forbidden by Allah (sins and evil deeds, etc.)], as you are commanded, and follow not their desires but say: "I believe in whatsoever Allah has sent down of the Book [all the holy Books, this Quran and the Books of the old from the Taurat (Torah), or the Injeel (Gospel) or the Pages of Ibrahim (Abraham)] and I am commanded to do justice among you, Allah is our Lord and your Lord. For us our deeds and for you your deeds. There is no dispute between us and you. Allah will assemble us (all), and to Him is the final return." Al-Qur'an 42:15

It is also stated that, narrated Buraida (radiAllahu anhu): Allah's Messenger (pbuh) said:

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"Al-Qudat (judges) are of three types, two* of whom will go to Hell and one to Paradise. The one who will go to Paradise is a man who knows what is right and gives judgement accordingly. However, a man who knows what is right, and does not give judgement accordingly and acts unjustly in his judgement, will be in the Hell-Fire. Likewise, a man who does not know what is right and judges people with ignorance, will be in the Hell-Fire." Al-Arba'a & Al-Hakim

*Ibn Hajar Al-Ashqalani commented on this hadith, that this Hadith states two points. First a person who does not know the truth and another person, who does not act upon the truth despite being aware of it, such persons shall equally be condemned to Hell-Fire. It means that knowledge without action has no value. Secondly, the possibility of committing judgemental error exists for anyone who exercises a judgement. Had it not been so, people would not have been divided as such and making of such fine distinctions among them would have been out of place.' Bulugh Al-Maram by Ibn Hajar Al-AshqalaniIt is also stated in another report that narrated by Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu):

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"Allah's Messenger (pbuh) cursed* the one who bribes and the one who takes bribes to influence the judgement." Al-Arba'a, Tirmidhi & Ibn Hibban

*Ibn Hajar Al-Ashqalani commented on this hadith, that both the bribe givers and bribe takers are accursed ones. Now, there are two applied situations. The first one involves a person who pays a bribe in order to acquire what lawfully belongs to him. In this situation, the bribe thus given becomes forbidden for the one accepting it and not for the one giving it. The second situation involves a person who pays a bribe in order to acquire more than what lawfully belongs to him and thereby encroaching upon the rights of another person. A bribe thus given will be regarded as forbidden for the giver and the taker equally.' Bulugh Al-Maram by Ibn Hajar Al-Ashqalani

Three

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Whether our neighbours are from same Faith (religion) or different Faiths (religions), it is one of the major sins to evict them or the neighbours from their property, stealing, robbing, deceiving, or any illegal activities that may harm and make their life unrest in any means. Allah, Exalted be He, said:

"And eat up not one another's property unjustly (in any illegal way e.g. stealing, robbing, deceiving, etc.), nor give bribery to the rulers (judges before presenting your cases) that you may knowingly eat up a part of the property of others sinfully." Al-Qur'an 2:188

FourMany times we meet people, spend time with them, and in term of the conversation many times people are willingly or unwillingly fall into the trap of the devils and involved in invalid talking's and sometimes it is no surprising they started to mock at the religions [i.e., subjects that are related to the religions]. In this kind of situation we are not allowed to sit with those people that are involved in such sinful activities. Allah, the Most High, said:

"And it has already been revealed to you in the Book (this Quran) that when you hear the

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Verses of Allah being denied and mocked at, then sit not with them, until they engage in a talk other than that; (but if you stayed with them) certainly in that case you would be like them. Surely, Allah will collect the hypocrites and disbelievers all together in Hell." Al-Qur'an 4:140

FiveAlthough being a part of the Islam (a true believer as Muslim) we are enough fortunate, but it does mean that we are allowed to mock at other Faiths (religions), nor we can proudly walk on the street with hatred towards others, nor even we can reject their rights of those who are from different Faiths (religions) due to only their Faiths are different. Allah, the Most Merciful, Most Beneficent, said:

"And insult not those whom they (disbelievers) worship besides Allah, lest they insult Allah wrongfully without knowledge. Thus We have made fair-seeming to each people its own doings; then to their Lord is

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their return and He shall then inform them of all that they used to do." Al-Qur'an 6:108

"And the slaves of the Most Beneficent (Allah) are those who walk on the earth in humility and sedateness, and when the foolish address them (with bad words) they reply back with mild words of gentleness." Al-Qur'an 25:63

"And turn not your face away from men with pride, nor walk in insolence through the earth. Verily, Allah likes not each arrogant boaster. And be moderate (or show no insolence) in your walking, and lower your voice. Verily, the harshest of all voices is the voice (braying) of the ass." Al-Qur'an 31:18-19

SixAccording to the teachings of Islam, a true believer always needs to be helpful towards his neighbours, but it is not allowed to help anyone except in righteous acts, and it is ruling for all without exception. People may partially help one another in bad acts when it is concern of their own family, relatives, or friends, but it is no way acceptable for the true believer to help others in evil acts. Allah, Exalted be He, said:

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"O you who believe! Violate not the sanctity of the Symbols of Allah, nor of the Sacred Month, nor of the animals brought for sacrifice, nor the garlanded people or animals, etc. [Marked by the garlands on their necks made from the outer part of the treestems (of Makkah) for their security], nor the people coming to the Sacred House (Makkah), seeking the bounty and good pleasure of their Lord. But when you finish the Ihram (of Hajj or 'Umrah), you may hunt, and let not the hatred of some people in (once) stopping you from AlMasjidalHaram (at Makkah) lead you to transgression (and hostility on your part). Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety); but do not help one another in sin and transgression. And fear Allah. Verily, Allah is Severe in punishment." Al-Qur'an 5:2

SevenIt is already stated that we may have neighbours from different Faiths (religions), but when it is about the teachings of Islam, it teaches for not a specific Faith (religion) but entire Humanity. There are a group of people who think that when

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it is about backbite, slandering or things like these kinds, it is counted only sinful when Muslims are involved. But if there is no Muslims are involved then they can do so. They also, for their claims to be supported, say that those are out of the fold of Islam, are from evil souls. But in fact it is not a valid reason to backbite of someone . Allah, Exalted be He, said:

"O you who believe! Avoid much suspicions, indeed some suspicions are sins. And spy not, neither backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it (so hate backbiting) . And fear Allah. Verily, Allah is the One Who accepts repentance, Most Merciful." Al-Qur'an 49:12

I have found, one of the fabricated Hadiths is well established in our society regarding the matter of backbiting. Some people may use that Hadith for support themselves in order to make their backbiting valid. But it is said that every Non-Muslim is a Potential Muslim. So, I have decided to expose that fabricated Hadith here with Allah's help, as follows:

"There is no sin in backbiting an evil liver." Related by Tabaraani

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Even though a person is evil liver he or she is still a Muslim. The evil liver as long as he didn't make his sin halaal is to be considered a Muslim. Unless his crime is so grave, and this he becomes a kafir whether he thinks it's halaal or haraam. An example of such crime is to insult Allah swt, His Messenger or the Holy Qur'an. Also to work magic. Since the evil liver may still be a Muslim it's unwise and impious to backbite him because this will drive him away from the Muslim community into the arms of the Kafirs. However backbiting is allowed under the following circumstances. To give a character reference about someone else. For example, when Fatima bint Qays came to the Prophet (pbuh) seeking marital advice after both Muaawiyah Ibn Abu Sufyaan (ra) and Abu Jahm (ra) had proposed to her, the Prophet (pbuh) said,

'Muaawiyah (ra) is stingy and tight fisted and Abu Jahm (ra) beats his women, so marry Usaama (ra) instead.' Sahih Muslim, (English trans.), Vol.2, p.772, No.3257

Or in the case in which someone has cheated you and another Muslim is about to do business with him, you should warn him by informing him of your own experience. This is allowed because the

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life, wealth and honour of every Muslim are scared. Thus if you allow your Muslim brother so set up business with a fraudulent person this will result in him been cheated out of his wealth or even his life savings.

Another form of backbiting that is allowed is in regards to the wicked scholars. If there is a scholar who preaches a false version of Islam and leads the Muslims astray, it becomes compulsory on the sincere scholars to expose his deviant ideas to the Muslim community. This is not a personal attack on his character but instead it is to safeguard the Muslims from hoax and hearsay. When Imam Malik Ibn Anas was asked about a well-known personality who was disseminating Islamic Knowledge. He said he is a Dajjal from among the many Dajjals (i.e., a great liar). Likewise when Imam Shafie was asked about a so-called hadith scholar, he said he is a pillar from among the pillars of lies and falsehood. With these two incidents we can say that the four great Imams and those who follow never conceal the treachery of the deviants and wicked scholars because the Deen is more important than one person. Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal used to say:

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"The man who prays tahajud all night is only benefiting himself, but the man who exposes the deviants is benefiting the entire Ummah of the Prophet (pbuh).'' Ar-Rasaa'il Wal Masaa'il, Vol.4, p.110

He also said: ''If the scholars of Islam keep quiet about the

falsehood how will the layman know the truth from the falsehood." Ar-Rasaa'il Wal Masaa'il, Vol.4, p.110

EightSometimes we have guests or neighbours in our home by different means, and we are about to hospitalize them. In this term we must be careful that in what ways and how we are hospitalizing them. Similarly, It was asked to The Permanent Committee and the decisions of the Fiqh Council, regarding the hospitality especially when people are from different Faiths (religions) and The Committee replied as follows: 'Islam is the religion of tolerance, ease and flexibility, and at the same time, it is the religion of justice. Hospitality is a part of Islamic good manners, but if the guest is a disbeliever, then the ruling differs according to the different

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intention of the host and the different types of hospitality he offers him. If his intention is legitimate, based upon his desire to create harmony between himself and the disbeliever, so that he may call him to Islam and save him from Kufr and misguidance, then his intention is honourable.One of the fixed rules of the Islamic law is that means are governed by aims; thus, if the aim is obligatory, the means is also obligatory; whereas, if the aim is forbidden, the means is also forbidden. And if he does not have a legitimate intention in offering hospitality and his failing to do so will not result in harm, then it is permissible.However, offering hospitality in the form of food and drinks which Allah, the All-Mighty, the Majestic has forbidden is not permissible, for hospitality in this case is a form of disobedience to Allah, obedience to them, and placing their right over the Right of Allah. The Muslim's obligation is to adhere to his religion. Doing so in non-Muslim countries will show a powerful image and he will be calling people to Islam by his words and deeds.' Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol.1

NineOne of the important issues which is must to clearly understood that are we allowed to give

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our disbelievers (other religions) neighbours a share of ours Slaughtered Animal? The same question was asked to The Permanent Committee and the decisions of the Fiqh Council and The Committee replied as follows: “Yes, it is permissible for us to feed the disbeliever - both the one who is under treaty with us and the prisoner of war - from the meat of the sacrifice; and it is permissible to give it to him due to his poverty, or because of family ties, or in order to soften his heart, because the sacrifice is only the slaughter, which is to bring us closer to Allah and act of worship for Him. As for the meat, it is preferable for him (the one who slaughtered it) to eat a third of it, to give a third to his family, neighbours and friends, and to give a third in charity to the poor. If he should increase or decrease any of these portions, or suffice himself with one or two of them, there is no objection to that, as the order on this is liberal.But he should not give any meat from the slaughter to one who is at war with us, since it is an obligation to suppress him and weaken him, not to support him or strengthen him with charity. The ruling is the same for voluntary charity, based on the generality of Allah's Words:

"Allah does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion and did not drive you

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out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equity. It is only as regards those who fought against you on account of religion and have driven you out of your homes and helped to drive you out, that Allah forbids you to befriend them, then such are the Zalimun (wrongdoers - those who disobey Allah)." Al-Qur'an 60: 8-9

'And because the Prophet (pbuh) ordered Asma' bint Abi Bakr, may Allah be pleased with her, to give her mother some money while she was a disbeliever." Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol.1

TenAnother important matter which especially Muslims need to take into the consideration extreme seriously, and that is, in any means we cannot join with our neighbours those are from different Faiths (religions) of their any Celebrations or Holidays. It was also asked to The Permanent Committee and the decisions of the Fiqh Council and The Committee replied as follows:"First of all, the Sunnah is to declare the Symbols of the Islamic religion among the Muslims and to abandon the declaration of them is contrary to the guidance of the Messenger (pbuh). It has been authentically reported that the Prophet (pbuh) said:

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"lt is incumbent upon you to follow my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the righteous, Well-Guided Caliphs." Abuu Dawud no. 4607, At-Tirmithi no. 2676, Ibn Majah no. 42 and Ahmad 4:126, 127

Secondly, it is not permissible for the Muslim to participate with the disbelievers in their holidays, nor to celebrate or show happiness on these occasions, nor to cancel work, whether they are religious holidays or secular holidays, because this is imitation of the enemies of Allah, which is forbidden. It has been authentically reported from the Messenger (pbuh) that he said:

"Whoever imitated a people, he is one of them." Abu Dawud no. 4031 and Ahmad 2: 50

We advise you to refer to the book Iqtidha' As-Sirat Al-Mustaqim by Sheikhul-Islam Ibn Taimiyah - may Allah have mercy on him - for it is very beneficial in this matter." Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol.1

Some Beneficial Hadiths on good Character and ConductA true believer is well-aware of the Islamic teachings especially regarding the behaviours towards others. A Muslim always needs to have a clear picture of the best character and conduct,

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so that people may understand the beautiful teachings Islam. During the period of the Prophet (pbuh) many of the disbelievers were highly impressed and turn to Islam due to his best character and conduct. Allah, Exalted be He, said:

"Indeed in the Messenger of Allah (Muhammad pbuh) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much." Al-Qur'an 33:21

Having a good character and conduct, not only bear the beautiful teaching of Islam but shall become a part and parcel of the Dawah towards others alike Muslims and Non-Muslims. So, I have decided and will mention some of the beneficial Hadiths on good character and conduct here with Allah's help. They are as follows:

1.The best amongst you are those who have best manners and character. Bukhari

2.The best of the Muslims is he from whose hand and tongue the Muslims are safe. Muslim

3.The best of people are those with the most excellent character. Tabarani

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4.The best of people are those that bring most benefit to the rest of mankind. Daraqutni

5.The best of people are those who are best in fulfilling [rights]. Ibn Majah

6.The best of you in Islam are those who are most excellent in character as long as you deeply understand the religion. Ahmad

7.The best of you are the best of you in fulfilling [rights]. Ahmad

8.The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best of you to my family. Tirmidhi

9.The best thing mankind has been given is excellent character. Hakim

10. The most beloved of deeds according to Allah are the prayer in its right time, then to treat the parents in an excellent manner, and then Jihad in the path of Allah. Bukhari & Muslim

11. The most beloved of people according to Allah is he who brings most benefit, and the most beloved of deeds according to Allah the Mighty, the Magnificent, is that you bring happiness to a fellow Muslim, or relieve him of distress, or pay off his debt or stave away hunger from him. It is more beloved to me that I walk with my brother Muslim in his time of need than I stay secluded in the mosque for a month. Whoever holds back his anger,

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Allah will cover his faults and whoever suppresses his fury while being able to execute it, Allah will fill his heart with satisfaction on the Day of Standing. Whoever walks with his brother Muslim in need until he establishes that for him, Allah will establish his feet firmly on the day when all feet shall slip. Indeed, bad character ruins deeds just as vinegar ruins honey. Tabarani

12. The best of you are those with the longest lives and most excellent character. Bazzar

13. The best of you are those with the longest lives and best in action. Hakim

14. The best of you are those who are best to their wives. Tirmidhi

15. The best of you are those who are best to their families. Tabarani

16. The best of the Believers is the most excellent of them in character. Ibn Majah

17. The best of the Believers with respect to Islam is the one from whose hand and tongue the Muslims are safe; and the best of the Believers with respect to Iman are the most excellent of them in character; and the best of those who migrate is he who migrates from that which Allah the Most High has

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prohibited; and the best of Jihad is when one strives against his soul for the sake of Allah, the Mighty, the Magnificent. Tabarani

18. Anas said, I served the Prophet of Allah (pbuh) for ten years. During that time, he never once said to me as much as 'Oof' if I did something wrong. He never asked me, if I had failed to do something, 'Why did you not do it?,' and he never said to me, if I had done something wrong, 'Why did you do it?' Bukhari, Muslim & Ahmad

19. Abd Allah ibn 'Amr said, 'The Prophet of Allah (pbuh) was never obscene or coarse. Rather, he used to tell us that the best among us were those with the best manners. Bukhari, Muslim & Tirmidhi

20. Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet of Allah (pbuh) said, 'And what is most likely to send people to Paradise? Being conscious of Allah and good manners. Bukhari, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah & Ahmad

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The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said in his last sermon on 9th day of Dhul al-Hijjah, 10 A.H. in the 'Valley of Mount Arafat,

"All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly. Be my witness O God, that I have conveyed your message to your people."

And He (pbuh) also said: "May Allah make radiant [the face of] one

who heard what 'I said, learned it by heart, and transmitted it as he heard it." at-Tirmidhi

"Glorified be your Lord, the Lord of Honour and Power! (He is free) from what they attribute unto Him! And peace be on the Messengers! And all the praise and thanks be to Allah, Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)." Al-Qur'an 37:180-182

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ConclusionI pray to the All-Mighty, Exalted be He, bless this small work and forgive me for falling short of my lofty goal. And I pray to the All-Mighty, All-Wise, that He bless the Prophet, his family, and his righteous Companions. May the All-Mighty, Exalted be He, grant us a place under the Prophet's standard on the Day of Resurrection. Aameen.

"....Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower." Al-Qur'an 2:127

"My Lord! Inspire and bestow upon me the power and ability that I may be grateful for Your Favours which You have bestowed on me and on my parents, and that I may do righteous good deeds that will please You,

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and admit me by Your Mercy among Your righteous slaves." Al-Qur'an 27:19

How perfect You are, O Allah! All praise is for You. I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped but You. I ask for Your forgiveness, and I repent to You.

"and the close of their request will be: Al-Hamdu Lillahi Rabbil-'Alamin [All the praises and thanks are to Allah, the Lord of 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)]." Al-Qur'an 10:1

[note: Due to typing errors, I had to remove the Arabic contexts of the Qur'anic verses. In sha Allah, as soon as the errors have

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been resolved I will put all those Qur'anic verses here.]

Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/MuhammadMhahmudIbnGaffer https://www.facebook.com/Md.Mhahmud.Ibn.Gaffer

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Blog: https://mmegaffer.wordpress.com/category/my-writing-books/

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