A neighbour is a person who lives near you or next to your house. In a broader sense, neighbours can also include people who work, study, or travel close to you. In Islam, neighbours hold a very special position, and their rights are given great importance in the Holy Qur’an and Hadith. A peaceful society begins with good relations among neighbours, and every Muslim is encouraged to show kindness, respect, and care toward them.
Rights of Neighbours in Islam
Islam gives clear teachings about the rights of neighbours. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that a person cannot be a true believer if his neighbour is not safe from his harm. In another Hadith, the Prophet said that Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) kept advising him about the rights of neighbours until he thought that neighbours would be made heirs. These teachings show the importance of good treatment and justice toward those living nearby.
The Qur’an also guides Muslims to worship Allah and do good to parents, relatives, orphans, and neighbours. Islam encourages sharing food, helping in times of need, and avoiding anything that may disturb or harm a neighbour. For example, playing loud music, blocking shared spaces, or gossiping about neighbours is discouraged in Islam.
Good Behaviour with Neighbours
Being a good neighbour means showing kindness, patience, and generosity. It is not enough to simply avoid harming others; one must also actively do good. Offering greetings, visiting them when they are sick, and supporting them in difficult times are acts of love that strengthen community bonds. Islam teaches that even if the neighbour belongs to another religion, Muslims must still treat them with respect and fairness.
In modern cities, people often ignore their neighbours and live individualistic lives. However, Islam teaches unity and social responsibility. A neighbourhood where people care for one another creates a peaceful environment that reflects true Islamic values.
Neighbours of Pakistan
Just as individuals have neighbours, countries also have neighbours. Pakistan’s neighbours include India, China, Afghanistan, and Iran. Each of these neighbouring countries shares cultural, economic, and historical ties with Pakistan. Maintaining peaceful and friendly relations with them is as important as maintaining good relations with personal neighbours.
For example, Pakistan and China share a strong friendship known as the Pakistan-China friendship. This bond is based on trust, cooperation, and respect—qualities that Islam encourages in personal neighbourly relationships as well. On the other hand, Pakistan and India share a long border and a complex history. Promoting peace, trade, and understanding between such neighbouring countries can improve the lives of millions of people.
Similarly, Afghanistan and Iran are important neighbours of Pakistan, with deep cultural and religious connections. Supporting peaceful relations, mutual respect, and cooperation among these nations is a moral duty that benefits the whole region.
The Importance of Neighbours in Society
Whether we speak about individual neighbours or neighbours of Pakistan, the concept teaches harmony, respect, and cooperation. Good neighbourly relations lead to peaceful communities and strong nations. When people respect the rights of neighbours, they create a society based on compassion and justice.
Islam not only emphasizes worship but also guides people to build good human relations. A believer who prays regularly but harms or ignores his neighbours fails to follow the complete message of Islam. Likewise, a country that ignores the rights and needs of its neighbouring states may face conflict and instability.
Conclusion
The rights of neighbours in Islam are a vital part of social ethics. Muslims are encouraged to love, help, and protect their neighbours as they would protect their own family. Similarly, Pakistan, as a Muslim country, should maintain good relations with all its neighbours—India, China, Afghanistan, and Iran—based on mutual respect and cooperation. By following the teachings of Islam and promoting peace at every level, both individuals and nations can create a world filled with harmony, brotherhood, and prosperity.
