Hadith #1816

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Ask about the neighbour before the house.

This concise statement holds great wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their interactions with their neighbors. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (jaar) "جار" in Arabic refers to a neighbor, someone who lives nearby. The word (daar) "دار" means a house or dwelling. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is advising us to prioritize our relationship with our neighbors over our own homes or personal matters. This Hadith emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with our neighbors and seeking their well-being before our own.

The Quran also emphasizes the significance of treating neighbors with kindness and respect. In Surah An-Nisa, verse 36, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:36)

Worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good, and to relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbor, the neighbor farther away, the companion at your side...

This verse highlights the neighbor's position in the hierarchy of those who deserve our kindness and benevolence.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'un, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) condemns those who neglect their neighbors and fail to fulfill their rights. He says, (Quran 107:4-7)

So woe to those who pray [but] who are heedless of their prayer - those who make show [of their deeds] and withhold [simple] assistance

This verse serves as a reminder that true worship of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is incomplete if we neglect our neighbors and fail to assist them when needed.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to prioritize the well-being of our neighbors and to actively seek their welfare. It reminds us that our neighbors have rights upon us, and we should fulfill those rights with sincerity and compassion. By doing so, we not only fulfill our religious obligations but also contribute to the harmony and unity of our communities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his vast knowledge and wisdom. His words in this Hadith reflect his deep understanding of the teachings of Islam and his commitment to fostering strong community bonds. He recognized the importance of a harmonious neighborhood and the positive impact it has on society as a whole.

When we prioritize our neighbors and actively seek their well-being, we create an environment of trust, support, and cooperation. This leads to a stronger sense of community and a more peaceful coexistence. By asking about our neighbors before our own homes, we demonstrate selflessness and a genuine concern for others, which are qualities highly valued in Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Ask about the neighbor before the house

serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining good relations with our neighbors. It urges us to prioritize their well-being and to actively seek ways to assist and support them. By doing so, we fulfill our religious obligations and contribute to the creation of a harmonious and compassionate society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in our interactions with our neighbors and grant us the wisdom to embody the teachings of Islam in our daily lives.