Adab al-Mufrad

Benefits and Issues:
➊ “A Muslim is the mirror of his brother” has two meanings: Just as a mirror, upon seeing someone’s flaw, does not reproach nor inform others, but rather silently makes the person aware of his defect, similarly, a Muslim should, upon seeing his brother’s fault or wrongdoing, inform him instead of publicizing it, and correct him in the best manner so that he is not disgraced. A true friend is one who warns a person about his shortcomings and faults.

The second meaning is that a Muslim, upon seeing the good character of another Muslim, tries to adopt those qualities and holds himself accountable, questioning whether he possesses that goodness or not. Upon seeing his brother’s faults, he examines himself to see if he has that flaw, and if so, strives to correct it.

➋ In the second hadith, it is stated that a believer is the brother of another believer, and he should treat the other as a brother—sharing in his pain and considering his loss as his own loss. In another hadith, the example of the believers is given as being like a single body: just as when one part of the body is in pain, the whole body becomes restless, similarly, a believer becomes restless at the suffering of another believer (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith: 6011). But unfortunately, today, selfishness has replaced sympathy and empathy. Every person is busy trying to belittle and deceive others. Instead of being saddened by the ruin of another Muslim, today a Muslim becomes happy. Instead of bringing joy to others, he seeks to snatch away their happiness. For the sake of his own happiness, he even tramples upon the wealth, life, and honor of others.

➌ A Muslim not only acts as a well-wisher for another Muslim in his presence, but also protects his wealth, life, and honor in his absence. He considers his brother’s honor as his own honor. But sadly, today the fence itself is devouring the crop; Muslims themselves are violating the honor of other Muslims.