Contrary to popular belief, as a rule Muslims do not hate Christians and Jews. As a matter-of-fact, Muslims have the same responsibility toward their non-Muslim neighbors as they do toward those who share the same faith.
Qur'anic Injunction Regarding Neighbors
In the Quran (Surat El-Nissa 4:36) it says: "Serve Allah, and join not any partners with Him; and do good - to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, those in need, neighbors who are near, neighbors who are strangers, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (ye meet) and what your right hands possess: For Allah loveth not the arrogant, the vainglorious."
It is important to note that this injunction does not single out Muslims only as targets for good deeds and compassion. Neighbors are mentioned twice in this verse (Ayah): once referring to the neighbors who physically reside close on all sides and the other referring to neighbors on a larger, more global scale (as we all share this Earth together).
Rights of Neighbors
There is a hadith (saying) of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, that goes as follows.
"Do you know what the rights of neighbors are?" asked the noble Prophet. And he went on to give a list:
- Help him if he asks for your help
- Give him relief if he seeks your relief
- Lend him if he needs a loan
- Show him concern if he is distressed
- Nurse him when he is ill
- Attend his funeral when he dies
- Congratulate him if he meets any good
- Sympathize with him if any calamity befalls him
- Do not block his air by raising your building high without his permission
- Harass him not
- Give him a share when you buy fruits, and if you do not give him, bring what you buy quietly and let not your children take them out to excite the jealousy of his children."
The Poor Person is also Bound by the Injunction
Anyone is capable of giving something - even the poor. Even a smile is a charity and a comfort. Moral support and a listening ear can go a long way in bettering someone's day. Tangible efforts are also possible, such as helping someone with yard-work or housework when he or she is ill or watching someone's house when they are away.
Prophet Muhammad and One of his Jewish Neighbors
One story related about the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, speaks about a Jewish neighbor that used to try to irritate him by throwing garbage in his way every day. One day, he walked out of his home to find no garbage. He immediately went to the woman's house and inquired about her to find that she was ill and he offered his assistance. She was so moved and at the same time ashamed of her actions at his concern after all she had done to him. This is a prime example of being a good neighbor.
References:
AbdulWahid Hamid,(2004)Islam the Natural Way. UK: Muslim Education and Literary Services.
Abdallah Yusuf Ali, (1999) The Meaning of the Holy Qur'an. (10th Edition) Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications.
