A Simple Guide to ISLAM
Islamic Society
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THE RIGHTS OF RELATIVES
A Muslim is required to maintain a good relationship with his
relatives. According to a saying of the Prophet, we should visit our
relatives, inquire about their circumstances, spend on them and
give them
sadaqa
(voluntary charity) if they are poor.
According to another
hadith
, if any one of our relatives does not
treat us well, even then we have to treat him well. As we know,
Islam enjoins us not only to be good to those who are good to us,
but also to be good to those who are not good to us. This shows
exemplary moral character according to the standard of Islam.
Here are some relevant verses of the Qur’an:
“Give your relatives their due...” (17:26)
“Allah commands justice, kindness and giving to near
relatives...” (19:90)
“And show kindness to your parents and to near
relatives...” (4:36)
The essence of Islam is thus to serve God and do good to our
fellow creatures, including the animals. The worship of Allah is
linked up with kindness to parents, kindred, and those in want. It is
not a matter of verbal kindness. They have certain rights which
must be fulfilled.
From the Qur'an and traditions we find that the institution of the
family can only be maintained by feelings of well-wishing and
kindness. So the Islamic laws of morality and decency must be
