Eman Sakina

Friendship is a cherished bond in Islam, rooted not just in mutual interests but in shared values, sincerity, and the pursuit of righteousness. A true Muslim friend is more than just a companion—they are a source of spiritual upliftment, emotional support, and moral guidance. The Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad provide deep insights into what defines a true Muslim friend, placing great emphasis on character, loyalty, honesty, and faith.

Friday Musings

Sincerity and Purity of Intentions (Ikhlas)

A true Muslim friend does not befriend others for wealth, fame, beauty, or personal gain. Their intention is pure—for the sake of Allah. Such sincerity in friendship is a rare treasure. The Prophet Muhammad said:

“Allah will say on the Day of Resurrection: Where are those who loved each other for My glory? Today I will shelter them in My shade on a day when there is no shade but Mine.”-Sahih Muslim

True Muslim friends love and support each other for the sake of Allah. Their intentions are not contaminated by jealousy, manipulation, or deceit.

Loyalty and Trustworthiness (Amanah)

Trust is the foundation of every strong friendship. A true Muslim friend honours confidences, protects secrets, and never betrays the trust placed in them. They are loyal in your absence as much as in your presence. Prophet Muhammad said:

“When a man tells something and then goes away, it is a trust.” -Abu Dawood

They do not gossip, slander, or use personal knowledge as a weapon. Instead, they guard your honour, speak well of you, and defend you when you are not there.

Honesty and Constructive Advice (Naseeha)

A sincere Muslim friend is not a flatterer. They speak the truth kindly, even when it is hard. They advise with compassion and wisdom, helping their friend improve without humiliation. Allah says in the Qur'an:

"By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience." - Surah Al-Asr: 1–3

If a friend sees you going astray or making a harmful choice, they remind you gently of your better path. This kind of honesty is a sign of love, not judgment.

Encourages Righteousness and Spiritual Growth

A true Muslim friend reminds you of your prayers, encourages your connection with the Qur'an, and joins you in acts of worship. They don’t pull you toward sin or distractions. Instead, they are your companion on the path to Jannah. Prophet Muhammad said:

"A man follows the religion of his friend; so, each one should consider whom he makes his friend." -(Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi

Such a friend makes you love the deen more, not less. Their companionship becomes a shield against the temptations of the world.

Compassion and Emotional Support

Islam encourages kindness and emotional understanding. A true Muslim friend is someone who stands by you in hardship, not only during ease. They offer comfort in your sorrow and celebrate your happiness without envy. The Prophet was the best example of empathy, often consoling his companions and sharing in their joys and griefs.

“The believers are like one body: if one part aches, the whole body responds with sleeplessness and fever.” - Sahih Bukhari & Muslim

A true friend listens, validates your pain, and helps you find strength in Allah during difficult times.

Forgiveness and Patience

No friendship is without occasional conflict or misunderstandings. A true Muslim friend is quick to forgive, does not hold grudges, and seeks reconciliation. They are patient with your flaws, knowing we are all imperfect and growing.

The Qur’an instructs: “Repel evil with that which is better, and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.” -Surah Fussilat: 34

This quality ensures that minor disputes do not ruin lifelong bonds.

Modesty and Respect for Boundaries

A true Muslim friend honours your dignity, avoids inappropriate jokes, never exploits your weaknesses, and maintains Islamic decorum in behaviour. They are respectful and modest in their speech, never using vulgarity or sarcasm to mock or belittle you.

Their presence makes you feel secure, not judged or ashamed.

Generosity Without Expectation

A true Muslim friend gives their time, support, and love without keeping count. Whether it is helping with a task, offering a favour, or lending a hand in times of need, they do it for Allah's sake. As the Prophet said:

“Whoever relieves a believer's distress of the distressful aspects of this world, Allah will rescue him from a difficulty of the difficulties of the Hereafter.” -Sahih Muslim.

Such friends are generous in spirit—offering their hearts more than their hands.

“On the Day of Judgment, friends will become enemies of each other except the righteous.” -(Surah Az-Zukhruf: 67

ALSO READ: Muslims’ penchant to serve as IAS, IPS, military officers is on rise

Let us all aspire to be the kind of friend who is not just liked in this world but cherished in the sight of Allah.