“Oh no…I don’t do that! I would never do that! How could I ever?!”

Perhaps this is your immediate reaction, you would never forsake another muslim. But be true to yourself. Are you sure?

When was the last time you called your parents to check on them? Maybe you have put them in a so-called ‘Care Home’. When was the last time you met up with your sisters, for the sake of Allah? And how about that brother you had an argument with? Have you ever apologised, even if you were right?

Too often we neglect the rights of others upon us. We are always too busy to see to the needs of others, and abandon family and friends ever so quickly.

The Prophet said, ‘whoever forsakes his brother for a year, it is as if he has shed his blood.’ (Bukhari)

Please note; that it does not only refer to the ‘blood brother.’ Rather it includes every believer, and is covered under the umbrella of brothers/sisters in faith.

Avoiding and abandoning a muslim weakens the muslim community and disrupts the unity. It is the first seed sown by Shaytaan to break up the ummah as a whole. It is no wonder the warning against it is so stern.

Abu Hurayrah reported that the Prophet peace be upon him said, ‘It is not permitted for a muslim to forsake his brother for more than three (days); whoever does this and dies will enter hell.’ (Abu Dawud)

In another narration we learn that one who forsakes his brother, is deprived of Allah’s mercy,

‘The deeds of the people are shown to Allah twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays, He forgives all His believing slaves, except for the one between whom and his brother is enmity. He says, ‘Leave these two until they reconcile.’ (Muslim)

Can we afford to delay the mercy and forgiveness of Allah?

My dear brothers, and sisters, the forgiveness of Allah is not something to be taken lightly. It is something every believer must yearn for, and hope for. Look at the mercy of Allah, He forgives us every Monday and Thursday, yet we waste these chances of forgiveness by quarrelling and forsaking our brothers and sisters.

Let us reflect on our present circumstances and make amends where possible while we have the time.

May Allah make it easy for us.