Principles of Neighbourly Rights in the Prophetic Seerah and Their Contemporary Relevance: An Analytical Study of Social Justice and Peaceful Coexistence

سیرتِ نبوی ﷺ میں حقوقِ ہمسایہ کے اصول اور عصرِ حاضر میں ان کی معنویت: سماجی انصاف اور بقائے باہمی کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abstract

Neighbourly rights constitute an important dimension of Islamic social ethics and occupy a significant position in the Prophetic Seerah. Islam does not regard the relationship between neighbours as merely a private or social matter; rather, it establishes it upon principles of compassion, mutual respect, justice, cooperation, protection of dignity, and social responsibility. This study examines the principles of neighbourly rights in the Prophetic Seerah and analyzes their relevance to contemporary peaceful coexistence, social cohesion, and community well-being. The research adopts a qualitative and analytical methodology, drawing upon the Qur’an, authentic Prophetic traditions, major works of Seerah, and relevant contemporary scholarship.

The study demonstrates that the Prophetic model extends neighbourly rights beyond material assistance to include respect for life and dignity, protection from harm, emotional and social support, sharing in times of need, tolerance, forgiveness, and consideration for the rights of neighbours regardless of differences in religion, ethnicity, or social status. The Prophetic approach further establishes social responsibility as a collective moral obligation and promotes relationships based on trust, compassion, cooperation, and mutual security.

The study concludes that the Prophetic framework of neighbourly rights provides a comprehensive ethical foundation for strengthening social cohesion and peaceful coexistence in contemporary societies. Its emphasis on mutual respect, protection from harm, human dignity, social responsibility, and constructive engagement offers valuable guidance for addressing social fragmentation, intolerance, and community conflict. Therefore, the Prophetic model of neighbourly relations can contribute significantly to contemporary discourse on peaceful coexistence, inclusive communities, and sustainable social well-being.