Islam is not a religion confined to rituals or personal devotion only; rather, it is a complete way of life that guides us towards kindness, compassion and service to humanity. True faith manifests itself not just in prayers, fasting or charity, but also in how we treat the people around us: our family, neighbours and even strangers. Helping others is one of the most beautiful acts in Islam and heart-touching Sunnahs of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Abdullah Ibn Umar (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to others.” (Al-Mu‘jam al-Awsat).

This single hadith beautifully summarises the spirit of Islam: living not only for oneself but for the well-being of others. Allah (SWT) created us as social beings, dependent on one another for both material and emotional support. In the Qur’an, Allah commands, “And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah: 02). This verse is a universal call for cooperation in goodness.

Islam encourages its followers to build a society based on empathy, helpfulness and moral integrity. The Prophet (PBUH) was the perfect role model of this virtue. He never hesitated to help anyone in need, whether it was a poor man seeking food, a sick person longing for comfort, or an orphan needing affection. He would personally visit the ill, console the bereaved, assist widows and travellers and show concern for every soul who suffered. Jabir (RA) narrated that once the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Every act of kindness is charity.” (Sahih Muslim).

This means that even a smile, a kind word or a gentle gesture carries immense value in the sight of Allah. Smiling at your brother, removing harm from the road, guiding a lost person or offering comforting words — each is a form of charity that purifies the soul and draws divine reward.

One of the most profound aspects of this Sunnah is its power to purify the heart and strengthen the bond within the community. Anas Ibn Malik (RA) narrated that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” (Sahih Bukhari). This noble saying teaches us that real faith thrives when we develop selfless love and genuine concern for others. When we help people without expecting anything in return, it softens our hearts, removes arrogance and brings Allah’s mercy into our lives.

Helping others in Islam is not limited to financial charity. Sometimes, a few kind words to someone feeling hopeless, a visit to a lonely neighbour, or listening patiently to someone’s pain can be a powerful act of compassion. The Prophet (PBUH) always encouraged Muslims to care for others with sincerity. He said, “Whoever relieves a believer’s distress, Allah will relieve him from distress on the Day of Judgement.” (Sahih Muslim).

Even the smallest deeds can carry immense weight in Allah’s sight. A drop of water offered to the thirsty, a helping hand extended to the elderly, or a kind word to the distressed — each is counted as good deed that earns forgiveness and closeness to Allah.

Moreover, this Sunnah nurtures harmony and social balance. When people begin to help each other selflessly, society becomes more peaceful, united and just. Poverty, loneliness and despair are reduced when every believer takes personal responsibility to be a source of goodness. This is how the early Muslim community thrived through mutual love, assistance and brotherhood.

Today, in a world filled with competition, materialism and indifference, the Sunnah of helping others has become even more relevant. People crave kindness more than ever. Reviving this prophetic practice can heal emotional wounds, reduce conflicts and restore humanity’s moral compass. Ayesha (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) once said, “The most beloved deed to Allah is that which is done consistently, even if it is small.” (Sahih Bukhari). Consistency in helping others – whether it is feeding the hungry, supporting the weak or volunteering time for good causes – builds a lasting legacy. It is through such small but regular acts that we earn Allah’s pleasure and build a compassionate world.

Let us, therefore, revive this Sunnah in our daily lives. At home, we can help our parents, spouses and children with kindness and patience. At work, we can support colleagues and treat everyone with fairness. In our neighbourhoods, we can take care of the poor, the elderly and those who are struggling. Every small step is counted, and every sincere intention is recorded by Allah.

By following the noble path of our beloved Prophet (PBUH), we can earn Allah’s mercy, bring happiness to others and make our society a better and more compassionate place to live in. The Sunnah of helping others is not only an act of service; it is a way to attain spiritual peace and closeness to Allah. May Allah inspire us to revive this beautiful Sunnah in our lives, and may He accept our humble efforts in serving His creation.

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The writer is a Lecturer and MPhil researcher