33. DUTY TOWARDS MUSLIMS

God says

When you are greeted with a greeting [of peace] answer with an even better greeting, or [at least] with the like thereof. -- Q.4: 86

Help one another in furthering virtue and God-consciousness, and do not help one another in furthering evil and enmity; and remain conscious of God …. Q.5: 2

If two groups of believers fall fighting,* make peace between them; but then, if one of the two (groups) goes on acting wrongfully towards the other, fight** against the one that act wrongfully until it reverts to God`s commandment; and if they revert, make peace between with justice and deal equitably (with them), for, verily, God loves those who act equitably! -- Q.49: 9
*The expression “fighting” comprises in this context all modes of discord and contention, both in word and deed. ** We may have to fight and put down evil -- never in a sprit of malice and hatred, but always in a sprit of justice and righteousness.


Prophet said

1. “Help your brother whether an oppressed or an oppressor.’ When asked how the oppressor? The Prophet replied, ”Prevent him from oppression’ – H: Bukhari and Muslim. N: Anas

2. “Duties of a Muslim toward another Muslim are five: to return greetings, to visit the sick, to follow the funeral, to accept invitation, and to respond to one who sneezes” – H: Bukhari. N: Abu Huraira.

3. “Whoever forsakes his brother (Muslim) for a year is like one who sheds his blood” – H: Abu Daud. N: Abu Kherash -as-Solami

4. “Every Muslim’s blood, property and honour are sacred to a Muslim” – H: Muslim. N: Abu Hurairah.

5. “Remove nuisance* from the path of a Muslim” – H: Muslim. N: Abu Barzata.*
This could be social, spiritual or financial.