The Rights of a Sister Over Another

As-salam alaikum

Bismillah

I received this in an e-mail and thought I would pass it on :-)

The Rights of A Sister Over Another Sister

A fundamental principle of sisterhood requires all Muslim women have the same basic understanding of Islam. This understanding should be based solely on the Qur’an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The Muslim woman must then be aware of her obligations as a Muslim, firstly towards Allah (swt), then the Prophet (pbuh), then her family and peers in the community. She must then do her best to fulfill her expected roles, duties and obligations. As Muslims we have God-given rights over one another.

Six of these rights are outlined in the following hadith: Abu Hurairah (ra) narrated: A Muslim has six rights over another Muslim: when you meet him, offer him greetings; when he invites you to a wedding feast accept it; when he seeks counsel give him; and when he sneezes and says al-hamdulillah: (praise is to Allah), you say yarhamuka’llah (may Allah show mercy to you) and when he is ill visit him; and when he dies follow his bier. (Muslim)

In Islam we also have certain obligations towards and rights over our neighbors. This not only applies to Muslim neighbors but also to those who are non-Muslim. We should maintain good relations with them and keep them safe from our harm and mischief. We must be polite and considerate of their feelings and show sincere concern for their welfare and well-being. We should also try to give them the best of what we have, e.g. food, money or possessions, and ensure that their needs are sufficiently met.

Aishah (ra) asked the Prophet (pbuh): “I have two neighbors, to whom shall I send a present?” He asked: “To the one whose door is nearer to yours.” (Bukhari)

Aishah (ra) said, “The Prophet (pbuh) said, “Jibril kept instructing me about obligations towards the neighbor so much so, I imagined that he might be included as one of the heirs with rights to inheritance!” (Bukhari & Muslim)

The Importance of Sisterhood in Islam

According to the Qur’an & the Sunnah

Ruqaiyah Abdullah

Du’a

O Allah! Verily I have done myself a grievous wrong and none forgives the sins but You. So grant forgiveness to me from Yourself and show mercy to me. Verily You are the Most Forgiving and Merciful.

My Sisters’ Charity