Adab al-Mufrad

Benefits and Issues:
➊ Among neighbors, the one who is closer is more deserving of good treatment, as is evident from the statement of the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam). However, this applies to gifts and presents, etc. As for matters of need, if the more distant neighbor is in greater need, then his need should be taken into consideration. In such a case, it is not correct to give to the closer neighbor without necessity and deprive the distant one. Furthermore, this hadith does not mean that the closer neighbor should always be given and the distant one always ignored; rather, it means that if there is only one thing and there are multiple neighbors, then it should be given to the one whose door is closer.

➋ From this, we also learn about the zeal of Umm al-Mu’minin Sayyidah A’ishah (radi Allahu anha) for following the Sunnah, and how she would seek to know the intent of the Shari’ah in every matter so as to attain closeness to Allah. Hafiz Ibn Hajar (rahimahullah) has stated that the wisdom in giving preference to the closer neighbor in gifts is that whatever comes into the house, he sees it, or he has more eagerness than the distant neighbor to be given a gift, etc. Or, the reason is that in unexpected incidents, this closer neighbor is the first to arrive, and thus he has been given precedence over the others.

➌ This narration also shows that one should choose the higher and more virtuous action, and not merely suffice with what is permissible. The reason for lagging behind in the field of action in our times is that we say, “It is permissible!” whereas there is excellence in choosing what is superior. It is also understood from this that knowledge precedes action, as Sayyidah A’ishah (radi Allahu anha) first acquired knowledge and then acted accordingly.