Man As a Social Being

✒ Safwan Baramy Al-Hikami

12 September 2026, 01 Rabi'ul Akhir 1448

Man’s true identity is that of a social being. Living in total self-sufficiency is simply impossible for human beings. Coexisting with others on a daily basis within our homes, families, neighborhoods, and various strata of society is an undeniable necessity. Therefore, a true believer must strive to exemplify excellence in all these spheres.

In this regard, the Prophet’s teaching on who constitutes a true believer is noteworthy. He did not define the best person as someone who performs an abundance of rituals. Rather, he said, “The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people” (أَحَبُّ النَّاسِ إِلَى اللَّهِ أَنْفَعُهُمْ لِلنَّاسِ). This implies that for humans living together in a society to become the most beloved to their Creator, they must also become a source of benefit to His creations.

A believer is not meant to confine themselves merely to their home, family, or immediate surroundings, interacting only within those narrow boundaries. Rather, like a flower in full bloom, they should radiate beauty and spread fragrance all around them. These social spheres are where a believer’s faith must manifest. Those living around us ought to benefit from us in various ways, and we must ensure that no harm comes to anyone through us.

When we think of helping others, our minds often jump straight to financial assistance. However, a believer grounded in Islamic teachings must realize the diverse ways they can support the people around them in the modern world. When a companion asked about the deed most beloved to Allah, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, replied, “Bringing happiness to the heart of a fellow Muslim.”

We should be able to engage warmly with people in various circumstances around us and bring joy into their lives. If we can offer comfort to colleagues, neighbors, and the many individuals we encounter in our daily lives who may be struggling with depression or loneliness through empathetic words, thoughtful check-ins, and a warm smile, isn’t that a great accomplishment in itself? Wouldn’t that become a deed most beloved to our Creator?

If we think with such a community-oriented mindset, consider how many ways we can extend a helping hand to so many people in our everyday lives! That is precisely the sense of social responsibility a believer must embody.

Causing harm to someone is far more grave than simply failing to be of benefit to them. This is reflected in a solemn teaching of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, where he said: “There should be no harming nor reciprocating harm” (لَا ضَرَرَ وَلَا ضِرَارَ).

Although these two terms carry similar meanings, scholars note a subtle distinction between them: one refers to inflicting intentional harm, while the other refers to harm that results inadvertently from an action done without intending or anticipating damage to others. The implication is that even unintentional harm must never originate from a believer.

Harm does not always take the form of physical abuse. Consider the Prophet’s instruction forbidding anyone who has eaten onions, a perfectly permissible food, from attending congregational prayer at the mosque. The underlying essence of this teaching is clear: no one present for prayer should be subjected to discomfort because of another’s actions. We must exercise great caution so that a believer never acts in a way that causes even minor inconvenience or discomfort to others.

An attitude of self-interest, caring only about getting one’s own way everywhere, is completely unbecoming of a believer. We owe a duty to those around us, and as believers, we carry the solemn responsibility to avoid causing them hardship.

When driving on the road, our vehicle’s headlights and engine noise should never cause disturbance or distress to fellow travelers. Similarly, we must ensure that our celebrations, expressions of joy, and public demonstrations do not create hardship for our neighbors or others. It is deeply tragic that believers who are duty-bound to exercise utmost mindfulness in these matters are often the very ones leading such unruly behavior, causing distress to those already suffering, including the sick.