In the light of the Holy Hadith

A muslim’s rights over another Muslim
Prophet (saw) said “A Muslim owes another Muslim five rights: responding to greetings, visiting him in illness, following his funeral, accepting his invitation, and praying for him who sneezes.” (Bukhari, Jana’iz, 2)

Dear Brothers and Sisters!
The first thing to do which our prophet (saw) recommends is to exchange greetings. Salam is conducive to the establishment of bridges of affection between hearts. It is a way of ensuring trust and peace as well as strengthening friendship and brotherhood. It is a requirement of faith, assurance of trust, and perfect form of love. The second recommendation the Messenger of Allah (saw) makes is to visit the sick. Angels pray for believers who pay a visit to the sick for the sake of Allah (swt).

The third recommendation the Prophet Muhammad (saw) makes is to attend funerals. Attending the funeral prayer of a brother/sister of ours, expressing our testimony in a positive way, joining the burial process, and extending condolences to the deceased’s relatives are both a religious and human duty. However, it is important under today’s circumstances both for ourselves and the health of those around us to observe some measures such as social distancing and mask wearing. As always, a believer seeks refuge in Allah, who is al-Rahman, on sorrowful days as well. The fourth recommendation that the Prophet Muhammad (saw) makes is to accept the invitation of a Muslim brother/sister. It is one of the ethical behaviours of the Prophet to accept the invitation from and please another Muslim brother/sister to the extent allowed by circumstances and means. The fifth recommendation made by the Prophet Muhammad (saw) is to pray for another Muslim when they sneeze.

Of course, our rights over each other are not only limited to these five recommendations. We have other responsibilities such as doing good to our family, neighbours, and relatives; take the orphan under our wings; and observe the needs of those who are in need. Then, let us not deny our love, compassion, and mercy to each other. Let us share the joys and sorrows of our brothers and sisters. Let us strive, until our last breath, to observe the ethics and responsibilities of brotherhood.
Jobayer Al Mahmud