This week, we will review the 13th hadith of the forty hadith of An-nawawih. For the past review, see here

This hadith is narrated by Abu Hamzah Anas bin Malik, a companion and servant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "None of you [truly] believes until he likes for his brother what he likes for himself." This hadith is reported by both Imam al-Bukhari and Imam Muslim, two renowned collectors of hadith.

In this hadith, the Prophet (peace be upon him) addresses the concept of faith (iman), which resides in the heart but is manifested in one's actions and behavior. Just as a person's Islam is considered complete when they refrain from interfering in the personal matters of others, the perfection of one's iman requires showing consideration and care for others. It entails sincerely desiring what is good for them, including guiding them to Islam, encouraging virtuous conduct, and wishing them lawful and beneficial things in this world.

This hadith emphasizes the importance of empathy, selflessness, and genuine concern for the well-being of others. It encourages believers to extend their goodwill, blessings, and desires for goodness to their fellow human beings, treating them with kindness and compassion. By adopting this mindset, individuals not only demonstrate their faith but also contribute to fostering a harmonious and caring society.

It is worth noting that this hadith highlights the interconnectedness of faith and righteous conduct. Genuine belief should go beyond mere words and internal conviction; it should manifest in how one interacts with others and seeks their betterment. Thus, this hadith serves as a reminder for believers to embody the values of love, compassion, and selflessness in their relationships with others, striving for the betterment of humanity as a whole.

The hadith carries several important lessons:

1. Brotherhood and Unity: The hadith emphasizes the concept of brotherhood in Islam. Believers are encouraged to treat one another like family and to develop a sense of unity and solidarity. They should genuinely care for their fellow Muslims and desire for them what they desire for themselves.

2. Empathy and Compassion: The hadith highlights the importance of empathy and compassion. It encourages believers to put themselves in the shoes of others and to understand their hopes, aspirations, and needs. By doing so, they can show genuine care and concern, and act in a way that benefits others.

3. Selflessness and Altruism: The hadith promotes selflessness and altruism. It teaches that true faith involves not only looking out for one's own interests but also actively seeking the well-being and happiness of others. Believers should be willing to sacrifice their own desires and preferences to ensure the welfare of their fellow believers.

4. Golden Rule: The hadith embodies the principle of the Golden Rule, which is found in various religious and philosophical traditions. It encourages individuals to treat others as they would like to be treated themselves. By applying this principle, believers can foster a harmonious and just society where everyone is treated with fairness, kindness, and respect.

5. Genuine Concern for Others: The hadith teaches the importance of genuine concern for the well-being of others. It goes beyond mere superficial gestures and calls for a sincere desire for the good of one's brothers and sisters in faith. This includes guiding them towards righteousness, offering support, and wishing for their success and happiness in all aspects of life.

6. Active Engagement: The hadith implies that true belief is not confined to personal convictions but requires active engagement with others. Believers should proactively strive to bring about positive change and contribute to the well-being of their communities. This can be achieved by promoting goodness, assisting others in times of need, and advocating for justice and equality.

Overall, this hadith highlights the significance of empathy, selflessness, and genuine concern for others in the life of a believer. It serves as a guiding principle for nurturing strong bonds of brotherhood and fostering a compassionate and inclusive society. By internalizing and practicing the lessons from this hadith, individuals can cultivate a positive and transformative impact on themselves and those around them.

May Allah grant us a beneficial understanding (Aameen)

Aameen!