IMAM MAZHAR MAHMOOD

My venerable teacher, Shaykh Sulayman Choksi — a sage of the age and a scholar of the Islamic academic sciences — would often reflect on the amazing standards of neighbors in the olden days in the country he hailed from. He would recount how neighbors lived in unity, sharing not only their food but also their laughter. And then, with a sigh, he would conclude his lesson with words that echo still in my ears: “The refrigerator has made us miser.”

In those days, when someone sliced open a ripe mango in its season, it was never consumed alone. Instead, it was offered to neighbors, fostering a spirit of togetherness. Today, however, that mango is more likely to be stored in the fridge, saved for later, hoarded for personal convenience. This is not simply about fruit — it is about the slow erosion of generosity, warmth, and human connection.

Our noble faith of Islam places immense emphasis on neighbors. Yet, tragically, we see very little of this spirit in our society today. People are glued to their phones, distracted by screens, or isolated within their own misery. Modern psychology confirms what Islam taught long ago: socializing, greeting, and even offering a smile can profoundly uplift mental health and mend hearts.

Allāh the Almighty declares in the Qur’ān: “Worship Allāh and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good, and to relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbor, the distant neighbor, the companion at your side, the traveler, and those whom your right hands possess. Indeed, Allāh does not like those who are self-deluding and boastful.” (Sūrat al-Nisā, 4:36)

Many exegetes have noted that this verse expands the concept of goodness to entire neighborhoods — echoing the wisdom that “it takes a village to raise a child.” The Qur’ān reminds us that society itself is built upon bonds of justice, care, and responsibility.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings upon him), whilst confiding in divine revelation, emphasized this point with unmatched clarity.

He said: “Jibrīl (The Archangel Gabriel) kept enjoining good treatment of the neighbor to the extent that I thought he would make them an heir.” (Sahi al-Bukhārī, 6014; Sahi Muslim, 2625)

In another narration, he said: “By Allāh, they are not believers! By Allāh, they are not believers! By Allāh, they are not believers!” It was asked, “Who, O Messenger of Allāh?” He replied, “Those whose neighbors are not safe from their harm.” (Sahi al-Bukhārī, 6016; Sahi Muslim, 46)

These narrations are not merely moral teachings — they are building blocks of society. Goodness to one’s neighbor is not conditional upon creed, color, race, gender, or political affiliation. It is an essential fabric of human coexistence, woven directly into the way of life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings upon him).

Yet, here in Peoria and countless cities across the world, many do not even know their neighbors. What once was a source of comfort and safety has been reduced to a wave across the driveway or, worse, complete silence.

It takes courage and effort in this age of social media to break the cycle of isolation. But the reward is far greater: stronger hearts, safer homes, and societies built upon mercy.

So let us ask ourselves: How can I be a source of comfort, positivity, and goodness in my neighborhood? How can I use my talents — whether small or professional — to bring light to those who live around me?

In rediscovering the rights of neighbors, we are, in truth, rediscovering ourselves.

— Imam Mazhar Mahmood is a resident Islamic scholar in Peoria. He can be found on social media under the same name. To reach out to him, you may email him at imammazharmahmood@gmail.com.