THE RELIGION OF HUMANITY: Islam’s Ethical and Spiritual Outlook

THE LIFE OF A BELIEVER and wealth. Next to him is the one who worships God in a mountain pass, and people are safe from his harm.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith No. 2485) The essence of all these teachings is that the highest standard of Islamic character is to benefit others. But at the very least, a Muslim must be completely harmless—someone who never causes the smallest problem for anyone, in any way. This ethical trait is, in fact, the truest sign of a person’s faith and submission to God. WITH THE NEIGHBOUR The Quran instructs believers: “Be kind to your close neighbour, your distant neighbour, your companion by your side, and the traveller.” (Quran, 4:36) This detailed mention of different types of neighbours shows that good conduct is obligatory toward all neighbours— whether they live nearby or far, whether the relationship is temporary or permanent, whether the neighbour is next door or someone you travel with or study or work alongside. Whenever and wherever a person comes into contact with another, it is necessary to uphold their human rights and avoid giving any reason for complaint. A Muslim must be a good neighbour on an individual level and, on a broader level, must also prove to be a good neighbour as a member of society or nation.