Conclusion

Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, constantly reminded his Companions of their obligations to Allah and to one another. He, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, reminded them that a believer does not allow his brother or sister to go hungry or live in unfortunate conditions.

When it comes to hospitality, there are countless opportunities a Muslim can find to engage in this most noble deed, with guests, neighbors and others.

Unfortunately, today many of us fall short when it comes to following in the footsteps of the Prophet of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, in practicing hospitality.

Some people do not even have a nodding acquaintance with their neighbors, and many of them may even die alone and not be discovered for days on end. This is completely against the teachings of Islam and the practice of the Prophet of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, and the righteous predecessors.

After family, neighbors are the people that we depend on the most in times of strife and calamity, and in times of need. Neighbors ought to be able to trust and rely on each other, regardless of their religion or ethnicity and must feel secure that both their honor and wealth are safe. Islam places great emphasis on the solidarity of families, neighborhoods and the wider community and on the qualities of respect, tolerance and forgiveness. Demonstrating these qualities in one’s dealings with neighbors and guests from the members of the Muslim community is a demonstration of the moral values and virtues fostered by the worship of the One True God.