{"id":4638,"date":"2021-05-16T08:19:39","date_gmt":"2021-05-16T07:19:39","guid":{"rendered":""},"modified":"2021-05-16T08:19:39","modified_gmt":"2021-05-16T07:19:39","slug":"breaking-up-relations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shiastudies.com\/en\/4638\/breaking-up-relations\/","title":{"rendered":"Breaking up Relations"},"content":{"rendered":"

Breaking up Relations<\/strong><\/p>\n

The seventh Greater Sin is Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm, the breaking up of relations with one\u2019s kith and kin. This is clearly verified by Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) as well as Imam Musa al-Kadhim (a.s.), Imam \u2018Ali ar-Ri\u010fa (a.s.) and Imam Muhammad al-Taqi (a.s.). The Qur\u2019an has also decreed Hell-fire and the curse of Allah (S.w.T.) upon those who cut off ties with their relatives.<\/p>\n

Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) says: \u201cBeware of those who cut off relations because I have found them cursed thrice in the Qur\u2019an.\u201d
\n1) Surah al-Baqarah, Ayat No.27 Whoever break the covenant of Allah after its confirmation and cut asunder what Allah has ordered to be joined, and make mischief in the land, these it is that are the losers.
\nIn the Qur\u2019anic terminology when the word Kh\u0101sir (loser) is used it denotes the one who is to be in loss, or rather the one who is cursed.
\n2) Surah ar-R\u0101\u2019d, Ayat No.25 And those who break the covenant of Allah after its confirmation and cut asunder which Allah has ordered to be joined and make mischief in the land; (as for) those, upon them shall be curse and they shall have the evil (issue) of the abode.
\n3) Surah Muhammad, Ayat No.22-23 But if you held command, you were sure to make mischief in the land and cut off the ties of kinship. Those it is whom Allah has cursed, so He has made them deaf and blinded their eyes.<\/p>\n

The Denouncement of \u201cCutting Off Kinship Ties\u201d in the Traditions<\/strong>
\nNumerous traditions have reached us in this regard. A few of these reports are quoted here:
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) states: There is destruction in enmity, especially with the relatives. I do not mean the destruction of the law but rather the destruction of the religion. (Enmity among people not only harms the hair and the body, but it also destroys one\u2019s religion). (al-K\u0101fi, Chapter of Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm)
\nImam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) says: \u201cProtect yourself from \u2018Haliqa\u2019 for it destroys the people.\u201d The narrator asked \u201cWhat is \u2018Haliqa\u2019\u201d, Imam replied, \u201cTo sever relations.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Worst Deed in the Eyes of Allah (S.w.T.)<\/strong>
\nA man approached the Holy Prophet (S) and enquired, \u201cWhat is the worst deed in the eyes of Allah?\u201d
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) replied, \u201cTo attribute partners to Allah.\u201d
\nThe man then asked, \u201cAfter this which is the worst sin?\u201d
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) said: \u201cTo sever relations\u201d.
\nAfter this the same person asked, \u201cAfter this which is the worst sin?\u201d
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) replied: \u201cTo enjoin the evil and to forbid the good (deeds).\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)<\/p>\n

Goodness in Return of Ill-Treatment<\/strong>
\nA man complained to Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) about his relatives. Imam (a.s.) said, \u201cSwallow your anger and behave nicely with your relatives.\u201d
\nThe man said, \u201cMy relatives give me all sorts of troubles and there is hardly any cruelty they have not committed upon me.\u201d The Imam (a.s.) told him, \u201cDo you also want to cut off relation with them? If you also become like them, then Allah will never have mercy for you.\u201d
\nAllama Majlisi (r.a.) says, \u201cIf one behaves kindly to the relatives who are bad, they would at one time or the other regret their behaviour. Then the Mercy of Allah (S.w.T.) will be upon both of them. If the ill-behaved relatives do not rectify their ways then at least the Mercy of Allah (S.w.T.) will be upon the one who continues kindness to them (the relatives).
\nIt is very clear to us that we must not sever relations even with those relatives who are unkind to us and who want to cut off the relationships.
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) says: \u201cDo not sever relation with your kindered even if they cut off relations with you.\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)
\nImam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) states: \u201cThere are Three sins whose punishment has to be borne in this world itself:- The first is injustice, the second is breaking of relationships and the third is false oath.\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)<\/p>\n

Life is Shortened<\/strong>
\nHazrat \u2018Ali (a.s.) says in one of his sermons: – \u201cI seek refuge from the sins which cause the hastening of death.\u201d Someone asked him, \u201cMaula, Is there any sin by which the death is hastened?\u201d He replied, \u201cYes, the breaking up of the family ties.\u201d
\nFamilies who live with co-operation and care for each other are given increase in sustenance by Allah (S.w.T.) and those who remain divided and are aloof from each other, Allah (S.w.T.) removes the bounty from their sustenance and their lifespan shortens even if they are all pious (in other respects).<\/p>\n

Death due to Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm<\/strong>
\nA companion of Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) complained about the ill-treatment given to him by his relatives, \u201cMy own brother as well as my paternal cousins are harassing me. They have snatched the house that rightfully belonged to me and have given me only a room to live in. If I complain to the government, I shall be able to recover all my property.
\nImam (a.s.) said, \u201cBe patient, everything will be alright.\u201d
\nThe man returned satisfied. In the year 131 A.H. there was a terrible plague. All the relatives of the man perished. Thereafter when he arrived before Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.), he (Imam a.s.) asked, \u201cHow are your relatives?\u201d
\nThe man said, \u201cBy Allah all of them are dead.\u201d The Imam (a.s.) said, \u201cTheir deaths have been due to their ill-treatment and Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm of relatives like you, not recognizing your right and cutting off relationships.\u201d<\/p>\n

Bereft of Divine Mercy<\/strong>
\nImam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) relates from the Holy Prophet (S) that he said: \u201cWhen people claim to possess knowledge but do not act upon it, when they claim to profess love but harbour malice in their hearts and sever relations, in such a condition Allah removes mercy from them and makes them undiscerning to logic. (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) says: \u201cAmong the various sins, injustice and cutting off relationships are such that one who commits these is punished in this world itself. Apart from this the punishment for these sinners has already been prepared in the Hereafter.\u201d (Mustadrak)
\nAt another occasion the Holy Prophet (S) has informed: \u201cOne who severs relationships will not enter Heaven.\u201d
\nJabir Ibn Abdullah Ansari (r.a.) has related from Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) that he quotes the Holy Prophet (S) as follows: \u201cJibr\u012bl (a.s.) has informed me that even at a distance of a thousand years man will be able to smell the fragrance of Heaven , but one who disobeys his parents, the one who breaks ties with the kith and kin, or the aged adulterer will not be able to smell it. In fact, the fragrance of Paradise will be felt even at a distance of two thousand years, but not by those who disobey their parents and those who break ties with the relatives.\u201d
\nThe exalted Prophet of Islam (S) has also informed that the invocation of the person who breaks family ties shall not be answered. \u201cIn the chapter on the merits of Shab al-Qadr the Prophet (S) has stated that in the night of Qadr Allah (S.w.T.) forgives the sins of all the people except of those who drink wine, who disobey their parents, and those who break ties with the relatives or harbour enmity towards the believers.\u201d<\/p>\n

Kindness to Relatives is Obligatory<\/strong>
\nThe Almighty Allah (S.w.T.) says in the Qur\u2019an: \u201c…and be careful of (your duty to) Allah, by Whom you demand one of another (your rights), and (to) the ties of relationship;\u201d (Surah an-Nis\u0101\u2019 4:1)
\nAccording to Imam al-Baqir (a.s.), the notable point in this verse is that the fear of Allah (S.w.T.) is mentioned alongwith the fear one should have about breaking relations with kith and kin.
\nIn the book al-K\u0101fi there is a tradition from Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.). He says: \u201cThe relatives in this Ayat, include all, and not only the nearest ones. Certainly Allah has ordered kindness towards all the relatives. Allah has given so much importance to this deed that he mentions it with his exalted name.\u201d<\/p>\n

Kindness to Relatives is Commanded in the Same Way as Sal\u0101t and Zakat<\/strong>
\nIt is related from Imam \u2018Ali-ar-Ri\u010fa (a.s.): \u201cAllah has ordered Three things along with Three others, in the glorious Qur\u2019an:
\n1) Sal\u0101t is ordered along with Zakat. If one offers Sal\u0101t but does not pay Zakat (when it is due upon him) then his Sal\u0101t will not be accepted.
\n2) Allah has ordered thankfulness to Himself along with the thankfulness to one\u2019s parents. If one is not grateful to one\u2019s parents it is as if he has not been grateful to Allah.
\n3) Allah has ordered piety along with kindness to ones kith and kin. Then one who is not kind towards the relatives is not pious.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rights of the Relatives and the Ease in Reckoning<\/strong>
\nThe Creator of the Universe, Almighty Allah remarks in the Holy Qur\u2019an: \u201cCertainly Allah orders equity, kindness (to people) and the giving (of what they need) to the relatives.\u201d (Surah an-Nahl 16:90)
\nIn Surah ar-R\u0101\u2019d is the following verse: \u201cAnd those who join that which Allah has bidden to be joined and have awe of their Lord and fear the evil reckoning.\u201d (Surah ar-R\u0101\u2019d 13:21)
\nThe expression \u2018reckoning\u2019 in this Ayat denotes the accounting of one\u2019s deeds with regard to his duty of kindness towards relatives. This Ayat shows that kindness towards the kith and kin shall be an important factor to ease the difficulty of the accounting for one\u2019s deeds.
\nImam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) explains as follows: \u201cKindness to relatives makes the reckoning (of the Hereafter) easy.\u201d (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)<\/p>\n

The Inimical Relative of Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.)<\/strong>
\nImam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) made a will in his last moments: \u201cPay seventy Dinars to my paternal cousin Hasan Aftas.\u201d
\nHe was asked, \u201cMaster you are making a gift to someone who has attacked you with a sword?\u201d
\nImam (a.s.) replied,
\n\u201cDo you think I should not be included among those concerning whom the Qur\u2019an says: \u2018And those who join that which Allah has bidden to be joined and have awe of their Lord and fear the evil reckoning\u2026\u201d (Surah ar-R\u0101\u2019d: 13:21)
\nAllah has created Paradise, purified it and made it fragrant. Its fragrance is felt at a distance of two thousand years (of travel). But the one who disobeys his parents or breaks ties with the kin will be so far away from Paradise, that he will not even experience its fragrance. (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)<\/p>\n

Traditions Regarding Kindness to Relatives<\/strong>
\nThere are numerous traditions to the fact that Silet ar-Rahm is obligatory. In one of such traditions Imam Baqir (a.s.) relates from the Holy Prophet (S) that he said: \u201cI will (command) all the people of my Umma, whether present or not, and those generations which are to come till the Qiy\u0101ma, who are still in the loins of their father and wombs of their mothers, that they should be kind to their relatives (and visit them) even if they live at a distance of a year\u2019s journey. Because kindness to relatives is one of the commands which is made an integral part of the faith (Im\u0101n).\u201d<\/p>\n

One Who is Kind to the Relatives Will be Able to Cross the Bridge of Sir\u0101t Smoothly<\/strong>
\nImam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) relates from Hazrat Abu Zar Ghaffari (r.a.) who quotes the Holy Prophet (S) to have remarked: \u2018Sir\u0101t (the bridge passing over Hell that everyone has to cross) will have on each side (of it) \u2018Silet ar-Rahm\u2019 and \u2018Amanat\u2019 (keeping a trust) one who performs the act of Silet ar-Rahm and maintains trusts (Amanat) shall be able to cross the \u2018Sir\u0101t\u2019 easily and will reach Paradise.
\nNone of the good deeds will benefit those who have broken ties with relatives or committed breach of trust. They will slip from the bridge of \u2018Sir\u0101t\u2019 and drop into Hell-fire. (al-K\u0101fi)<\/p>\n

The Worldly Benefits of Kindness to Relatives<\/strong>
\nNumerous reports (Raway\u0101t) testify that Silet ar-Rahm (kindness to one\u2019s relatives) also has worldly benefits. Like, increase in the life-span, postponement of death, increase in the number of descendants etc., Hazrat Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) related Three traditions from the Holy Prophet (S) in the court of Mansur Dawaniqi (l.a.).
\n1) \u201cA man who has only Three years of life remaining, performs an act of kindness to his relatives and Allah increases his life by thirty years. In the same way a man has thirty years of life but due to his breaking off the ties of relationship, his (remaining) life is decreased to Three years. Then the Holy Prophet (S) said: Whatever Allah wills He erases and whatever He wills He writes.
\nIt means that if Allah wills He can alter (certain destinies) due to one\u2019s actions and deeds.\u201d (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)
\n2) \u201cFulfilling the rights of kith and kin increases the life-span even if the relative is a sinner.\u201d (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)
\n3) Silet ar-Rahm (kindness to relatives) is a cause for the easy accounting of one\u2019s deeds on the day of Qiy\u0101ma and it (Silet ar-Rahm) protects one from sudden death.\u201d
\nHazrat Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) has told Maysar: (O\u2019 Maysar) the time of your death has arrived many times but Allah has postponed (your death) due to your kindness to the relatives and good behaviour towards them.<\/p>\n

\u2018Silet ar-Rahm\u2019 Prolongs Life<\/strong>
\nIt is reported from Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) that he said to Maysar, \u201cO Maysar, truly your lifespan has increased, what good actions have you been performing?\u201d
\nMaysar replied, \u201cIn my youth I used to earn from my labours an amount of five Dinars a day and I used to give these to my maternal uncle.\u201d
\nYaq\u016bb Magribi was once in the presence of Imam Musa al-Kadhim (a.s.). Imam (a.s.) said,
\n\u201cYou and your brother had an argument over the ownership of a house. So much so that you abused each other and broke up the ties of relationsip. Such a thing is not from my religion, neither is it from the religion of my ancestors. Then fear Allah , the One Who is without any partner. Fear the Divine Punishment. Due to this sin, death shall soon separate you (two). Your brother will die in this journey and you shall regret you actions.\u201d
\nThe man asked,\u201dMay my life be sacrificed upon you, when will I die?\u201d
\nImam (a.s.) replied, \u201cYour death had also arrived but you did an act of kindness to your father\u2019s sister (your aunt) and thus your lifespan increased by twenty years (or months).\u201d
\nAs Imam (a.s.) has predicted, Yaq\u016bb\u2019s brother died before he could reach home and was buried on the way. (Safinat\u2019ul-Bih\u0101r)<\/p>\n

The Benefits of Silet ar-Rahm in the Hereafter<\/strong>
\nThe practice of Silet ar-Rahm (kindness to kith and kin) accrues worldly advantages, spiritual benefits and bounties of the Hereafter.
\nImam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq says: \u201cSilet ar-Rahm perfects the morals and encourages charity. When one performs Silet ar-Rahm he has to be benevolent towards his relatives. The continuous practice of Silet ar-Rahm brings refinement in his morals. In the same way repeated acts of kindness inculcate a benign and compassionate feeling in the person, and the soul is purified (from the sin of jealousy and enmity). (Safinat\u2019ul-Bih\u0101r)<\/p>\n

Silet ar-Rahm Causes All the Good Deeds to be Accepted<\/strong>
\nImam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) states: Silet ar-Rahm (kindness to relatives) purifies deeds. Purification of deeds means, that the shortcomings in all the good deeds of a person practicing Silet ar-Rahm are naturally compensated and all his good deeds are accepted by Allah.
\nIt increases wealth, wards off difficulties and calamities. The accounting of your actions on the day of Qiy\u0101ma is made easy. Even the ordained time of death is postponed.<\/p>\n

Extending Hand of Friendship Towards Those Who Want to Break the Ties (Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm)<\/strong>
\nImam Sajjad (a.s.) says: There are two actions, towards which, a step taken is liked by Allah more than anything else. One is the step taken to join a row formed in the name of Allah (for Jihad or Sal\u0101t); the second is the one taken to extend a hand of friendship towards kith and kin who want to break relations. (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) said: \u201cCertainly there is a section in Paradise which can not be attained except by Three kinds of people. First the just Imam, second, the one who does Silet ar-Rahm, and third the one who has family (and children) but remains patient (in poverty and difficulties). (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)<\/p>\n

The Reward of Silet ar-Rahm<\/strong>
\nThe reward for Silet ar-Rahm has been described by the Holy Prophet (S) in one of his traditions. He says: \u201cWhen a person goes towards his relatives so that he can fulfill his rights with his life and his wealth, Allah bestows upon him the reward of a martyr at every step he takes. He (Allah) writes down forty thousand Hasana (the unit of Divine rewards) and He erases forty thousand of his sins and He elevates him by forty thousand grades. The person achieves the position of one who has worshipped Allah for a hundred years.\u201d (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)
\nAt another place the Holy Prophet (S) says, regarding the rewards for Silet ar-Rahm: \u201cThe reward for Sadaqah in the way of Allah is ten times, whereas the reward for giving a loan is twelve times (because in giving a loan the dignity of the Loanee is maintained). The reward for the good behaviour to the believing brothers is twelve times and the reward for Silet ar-Rahm is twenty four times.\u201d (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)<\/p>\n

The Meaning of Silet ar-Rahm and Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm<\/strong>
\nThe Shari\u2019a of Islam has not provided any fixed definition for these two terms. In this case the meaning as judged by common sense and reason must be accepted. We must consider all the relatives from the father\u2019s side and mother\u2019s side, irrespective of whether they are close or distant, to be our kith and kin who have a right on us. In the same way the children of the daughters and their descendant also come in this category as the Qur\u2019an says:
\n\u2018Those who join together (do Silet ar-Rahm) those things which Allah has commanded to be joined.\u201d (Surah ar-R\u0101\u2019d 13:21)
\nUrwah Ibn-Yaz\u012bd asked Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) the meaning of this Ayat (Surah ar-R\u0101\u2019d 13:21), the Imam (a.s.) replied; \u201cYou have been commanded to do Silet ar-Rahm towards all your relatives. Whether they are Mahram (in the prohibited category of marriage) or Non-mahram, (not in the prohibited category) whether they are distant relatives or closely related, whether they are immediate relatives or separated by several generations.\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)<\/p>\n

No Discrimination Between the Affluent and the Poor Relatives<\/strong>
\nIt is generally observed that people tend to behave graciously towards their wealthy relatives and avoid the poor ones. The faith of Islam does not differentiate or discriminate between the rich and the poor relatives. What is important is the closeness of relationship. The more closely a person is related to you, the more important and necessary it is to fulfill his rights.<\/p>\n

What is Silet ar-Rahm?<\/strong>
\nAny behaviour which is generally regarded by people as good, kind, gracious or obligatory, when directed towards your relatives is Silet ar-Rahm.
\nImam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) says: \u201cThe kindness towards relative and goodness towards the believing brother makes easy your reckoning on the Day of Judgement and protects you from sins. So you should be kind to your relatives and be good to your believing brothers even if it is as little as a sincere \u2018sal\u0101m\u2019 (salutation) or a hearty reply to a sal\u0101m.\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)
\nAt another place the Sixth Imam (a.s.) remarks: \u201cDo Silet ar-Rahm towards your relatives and the near ones even if it is just by offering a glass of water to them.\u201d (Wasa\u2019il ul-Shia)<\/p>\n

The Different Grades of Silet ar-Rahm<\/strong>
\nShah\u012bd al-Thani[5] (r.a.) describes the grades of Silet ar-Rahm in the following words: It is deduced from the traditions that the highest stage of Silet ar-Rahm is to consider the relatives as our own selves. That is, we should wish for our relations whatever we wish for ourselves.
\nThe next stage of Silet ar-Rahm is to help relatives overcome the difficulties and hardships they may be facing. Next, we must earnestly try to benefit our kith and kin as much as possible, in areas where they need help and of course in a manner permitted by religion. This benefit can be either economic or by way of making a person independent, by securing for him a job or initiating him into a trade. It can also be in the form of a sound advice, spiritual guidance and religious teachings.
\nThe fourth stage of Silet ar-Rahm is towards those people who are dependents of our relatives. For example, the brother\u2019s wife or the step-mother.
\nThe simplest kind of Silet ar-Rahm consists of salutations, a lesser kind is the conveying of Sal\u0101m (through someone). The smallest kind of Silet ar-Rahm is to pray for relatives in their presence and to encourage them.<\/p>\n

The Difference Between Breaking Relations With Nearest Kin and With Distant Relatives<\/strong>
\nQat\u2019a ar-Rahm and Silet ar-Rahm with respect to the close kith and kin could be different from that with the distant relatives. It is possible that a certain action or attitude towards close relative would amount to Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm but the same towards a distant relative may not be regarded as such. Also a certain behaviour with a knowledgeable and a pious relative may be termed as Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm but with respect to other relatives it may not be so. It is best to refrain from every act that could possibly amount to Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm. We must observe extreme precaution in this matter lest we bring upon ourselves the severe punishment of a Greater Sin.<\/p>\n

Arrogance Towards Poor Relatives is Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm<\/strong>
\nThe ones most guilty of Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm are the rich and affluent who do not acknowledge their connections with their poor relatives and deal with them with pride and arrogance, while they are polite and kind to their wealthy relatives. To neglect one\u2019s duty and give importance to material possessions, contradicts the laws of Islam both in the letter and spirit.<\/p>\n

What is the Least Amount of Silet ar-Rahm That is Wajib<\/strong>
\nEvery kind of Silet ar-Rahm, the failure of which is viewed as a sort of Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm, is obligatory for us. For example, if a person is unable to fulfill his needs due to poverty or is unable to get medical aid for any reason, or is in debt; and he approaches a rich relative for help; it is obligatory on the rich person to help him. Even if the rich person is not approached directly but comes to know the predicament of his poor relative, it is obligatory on him to help this less fortunate relative. The wealthy man who fails to carry out these obligations will be guilty of Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm.
\nIt is however not obligatory for a person to help his poor relative if he himself is not in a sound position to do so and fears that his finances will be constrained or that he himself may become a destitute. Also, Silet ar-Rahm is not obligatory, if by doing so he will violate the laws of Islam. For example one need not pay a visit to a relative, if by doing so one would be in the midst of Na-mahram or may be compelled to hear music.
\nSometimes we may be in doubt whether a particular action could be considered as Silet ar-Rahm or Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm. In this case the reference point is to see how the people in general view it. The criteria for deciding that a particular behaviour is Silet ar-Rahm or Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm therefore depends on the general feeling for it. If a small lapse like not saluting or non-compliance with a small request is Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm according to those around us, then it is so. By the same token if observing small niceties are considered as Silet ar-Rahm, then it is so.<\/p>\n

Silet ar-Rahm With Certain Relatives is Mustahab if Not Wajib<\/strong>
\nAt times some obligations towards distant relatives are not considered Silet ar-Rahm and accordingly are not Wajib (obligatory) for us. But these obligations are bound to be Mustahab. In any event, it is best to conduct ourselves in a manner that we totally eliminate the risk of committing a Greater Sin.<\/p>\n

Breaking Ties Even With Those Who Wish to Break Up Ties With us is Har\u0101m<\/strong>
\nAlthough one would not be at fault from a worldly point of view, according to Shari\u2019a, breaking ties even with those who want to do so is Har\u0101m.
\nIt is natural for a person who, finding that his relative does not acknowledge him nor fulfills his rights, reacts by remaining aloof and allowing the bonds of kinship to be broken.
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) says: \u201cDo not break ties with your relatives even if they break them with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Order of Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) Regarding Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm<\/strong>
\nAbdullah Ibn Sinan says that I pleaded to Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.), \u201cI have a cousin, I do Silet ar-Rahm (kindness) towards him and do not wish to break ties with him. But he wants to break ties with me. (Master
\nI want to maintain relations but he wishes to sever them. Due to this behaviour of his I am also inclined to cut off ties with him. Can you permit me to do so?\u201d
\nImam (a.s.) replied: \u201c(Remember) If you behave kindly with this relative of yours inspite of his Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm (then it is possible that one day this will affect him and he too will begin to fulfill his obligations). In this way the Mercy of Allah shall be upon both of you. But if you break ties with this cousin of yours then neither of you shall be eligible for the Mercy of Allah.\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)<\/p>\n

Goodness in Return of Ill-Treatment<\/strong>
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) says: \u201cIf any one betrays trust with you, do not betray trust with him or you will also become like him. Similarly, do not break ties with your relatives even if they do so.\u201d (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)
\nIt means that if we reciprocate the malice of a relative we shall also be like him (i.e. sinful). In the same way the Holy Prophet (S) has invited us to perform kindness in lieu of misdemeanor. He remarks, \u201cDo you wish me to tell you (about those qualities) which shall benefit you in this world as well as Hereafter?\u201d
\nThe people said, \u201cO Prophet of Allah! Please do so.\u201d
\nThe Prophet (S) said, \u201cThe Three such qualities are, firstly, to do Silet ar-Rahm with one who does Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm with you. Secondly, fulfill the needs of one who has deprived you. Thirdly, forgive those who have oppressed you.\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)<\/p>\n

Breaking of Ties With the Muslim and the Kafir Relatives<\/strong>
\nThe traditions of the Ma\u2019s\u016bm\u012bn (a.s.) leave no doubt whatsoever that the fulfilling of the rights of one\u2019s relatives is obligatory. Whether the relatives are Shia or Sunni, pious and religious or sinful and transgressors or whether they are Muslims or Kafirs. It is compulsory to perform Silet ar-Rahm with them. Even if a Muslim relative apostises and becomes a kafir, his rights are not invalidated.
\nInb al-Hamid enquired from Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.): \u201cMy relatives are not of my religion. Are any of their rights upon me?\u201d Imam (a.s.) gave the following reply: \u201cWhy not? The rights of the relatives do not become invalid for any reason (even if the relatives are unbelievers) but if the relatives are Muslim then their rights are twice as much. One is due to their being relatives and second because of their being Muslim.\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)<\/p>\n

Daw\u016bd Raqqi the Companion of the Sixth Imam (a.s.)<\/strong>
\nDaw\u016bd Raqqi says: \u201cI was sitting in the company of Imam (a.s.) when Imam (a.s.) himself started speaking and said: \u201cDaw\u016bd, on Thursday the report of your deeds was presented to me and I saw among your deeds the Silet ar-Rahm which you have performed with your cousin (brother), I was very pleased. However, I know that this Silet ar-Rahm of yours will (because of his Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm towards you) be the cause of his early death.\u201d (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)
\nDaw\u016bd, the companion of Imam Sadiq (a.s.) says: \u201cMy cousin used to bear enmity towards me. He was an evil person. When I came to know about his destitution, I went to Makkah and gave him some money so that he could manage himself for some time. It was this action of mine about which Imam (a.s.) was informed and he told of it on my return to Madinah.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Behaviour of Imam as-Sadiq (a.s.) Towards His Inimical Relatives<\/strong>
\nCertain relatives of the Holy Imam (a.s.) not only failed to acknowledge his rights but even bore enmity against him in their hearts. Although the enmity against Imam (a.s.) makes him a disbeliever. Yet Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) willed that seventy Dinars be given to Hasan Aftas. Hasan Aftas was an evil person and had such deep malice against Imam (a.s.) that he had once tried to attack Imam (a.s.) with a sword. The goodly behaviour of Imam (a.s.) towards his enemy was due entirely to his relationship.<\/p>\n

Conversation of Imam as-Sadiq (a.s.) With Abdullah Hasani<\/strong>
\nOnce Abdullah Hasani, a relative of Imam Sadiq (a.s.) met him on the streets of Madinah. He had a meaningless argument with Imam (a.s.) and spoke ill of him. Imam (a.s.) replied to this misbehavior in the best way. He went to the house of this person the very next day and said, \u201cYesterday I recited the following Ayat of the Qur\u2019an, \u201cAnd those who joined that which Allah has bidden to be joined and have awe of their Lord and fear the evil reckoning. (Surah ar-R\u0101\u2019d 13:21)
\nI became very fearful because of it.\u201d Abdullah understood that Imam (a.s.) was intending to correct him. He began to weep and said, \u201cI have willfully forgotten this verse. After this, Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) and Abdullah embraced each other. (al-K\u0101fi)<\/p>\n

The Grief of Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) on the Oppression upon the Descendants of Imam Hasan (a.s.)<\/strong>
\nWhen Mans\u016br Dawaniqi arrested and imprisoned Abdullah Mahej and other Hasani Sad\u0101ts, Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) was grief-stricken. Although the Hasanis were opposed to Imam (a.s.), the Imam\u2019s (a.s.) distress was such that he was confined to bed for twenty days. He wrote a lengthy letter to them to express his sorrow and to offer comfort and consolation. He sent this letter to the prison of Kufa and was in regular contact with them to know their well-being. Often he wept on their imprisonment.<\/p>\n

It Does Not Matter if We Are Kind to Certain Relatives Who Are Not Muslim<\/strong>
\nIt is simply clear by now that for Sileh-Rahem and Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm, the Shari\u2019a does not distinguish between a Muslim and a Kafir or between a pious and a sinful person. At the same time we also know that Islam exhorts us to shun infidels and to dissociate with them. These contradicting views will cause some confusion in our minds and a word of explanation is in order.
\nUndoubtedly Islam orders us to detest kafirs, hence it is improper to behave well with them. Good behaviour towards a Kafir is an outward act and at a social level. While hating him for being an Kafir is how you feel and think about him at a spiritual level. Since Sileh-Rahem is obligatory, we must behave well with our Kafir relatives, but at no stage should we be oblivious of the fact that they are non-believers and deserve to be hated for being Kafirs.<\/p>\n

Silet ar-Rahm to Kafir Relatives Should Not Encourage Them in Their Disbelief<\/strong>
\nIf Silet ar-Rahm towards a Kafir relative, in some way, strengthens his conviction towards his own religious views; or if Sileh-Rahem towards a sinful relative provides him with opportunity and encouragement in his unlawful ways, then this kind of Silet ar-Rahm is forbidden. In fact, if Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm induces a disbeliever to introspect and reconsider his disbelief, then, Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm is obligatory on us. In the same way Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm is obligatory if it discourages or dissuades a relative in his sinful ways.<\/p>\n

Dissociating With the Enemies of Islam<\/strong>
\nThere is another situation where Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm is Wajib (obligatory). That is when the kafir or sinful relative harbors malice towards the religion of Islam. Allah (S.w.T.) says in Surah al-Muj\u0101dala:
\n\u201cYou shall not find people who believe in Allah and the latter day befriending those who act in opposition to Allah and His apostle, even though they were their (own) fathers, or their sons or their brothers or their kinsfolk…\u201d (Surah al-Muj\u0101dala 58:22)
\nThis verse clearly indicates that one must abstain from Silet ar-Rahm towards even the closest of relatives if they are inimical towards Allah (S.w.T.) or the Holy Prophet (S) or the Islamic faith.<\/p>\n

Silet ar-Rahm is Wajib if the Relative is not Overtly Inimical<\/strong>
\nA Qur\u2019anic verse from the chapter Mumtahana says: \u201cAllah does not forbid you from respecting those who have not made war against you on account of (your) religion, and have not driven you forth from your homes, that you show them kindness and deal with them justly, surely Allah loves the doers of justice. Allah only forbids you from respecting those who made war upon you on account of (your) religion, and drove you forth from your homes and backed up others in your expulsion, that you make friendship with them and whoever makes friends with them, these are the unjust.\u201d (Surah Mumtahana 60:8-9)
\nThus it could be concluded from the above two verses that if a relative does not openly oppress us or exhibit enmity, then Silet ar-Rahm is Wajib towards him.<\/p>\n

Silet ar-Rahm is Wajib Even if One Has to Travel Far to Perform it<\/strong>
\nIt is highly recommended to fulfill the duty of Silet ar-Rahm even if one has to travel a long distance to do so. The Holy Prophet (S) told \u2018Ali (a.s.): \u201cO \u2018Ali! Even if you have to travel for two years to do good to your parents, do it, even if you have to travel for one year to perform Silet ar-Rahm to your kinsfolk, do so. Even if you have to journey a mile to see a sick person, do it. Even if you have to walk two miles to attend a funeral, do it. Even if you have to travel four miles to meet a believing brother, do it.\u201d (Bih\u0101r al-Anw\u0101r)
\nTraditions have stated, as mentioned earlier, that for every step a person takes to visit his relatives, he gets forty thousand rewards, forty thousand of his sins are forgiven and his status is raised by forty thousand grades.<\/p>\n

Maintain Cordial Relations But Do Not Reside Close to Each Other<\/strong>
\nAmir ul-Mu\u2019min\u012bn (a.s.) writes a letter to one of his officers, \u201cOrder the relatives to visit each other but ask them not to reside in the same neighborhood.\u201d
\nThe late Scholar, Naraqi, explains in his book, \u2018Miraj us Sad\u0101t\u2019: \u201cStaying next to each other breeds malice and jealousy and results in Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm.\u201d
\nIt is much easier for relatives to maintain harmony and goodwill by staying apart from each other. Proximity often results in friction and enmity.
\nThere is a Persian proverb that says that distance and friendship are proportionate to each other.<\/p>\n

Silet ar-Rahm With the Spiritual Father<\/strong>
\nWe are indeed indebted to our parents for our physical, mental and spiritual development. But mankind could not have been guided right, without a spiritual father. The essence of spiritual guidance which consists of rules of conduct as approved by Allah (S.w.T.) have come to us only through the Holy Prophet (S) and it was the sustained and unsparing effort of the Holy Prophet (S) which guided mankind to the path of salvation and eternal happiness. The Holy Prophet (S) was the spiritual father of the Muslims in his time and later \u2018Ali (a.s.) took his place. It is only through love and obedience to them that one can hope to achieve spiritual eminence.
\nThis is corroborated by the statement of Allah (S.w.T.) to the effect that whoever enters the \u2018fort\u2019 (protection) of these exalted personalities, his spiritualism becomes evident in his behaviour. The doors of knowledge and awareness are open. The fountain of sagacity flows in his heart and the reality becomes manifest for him.<\/p>\n

The Advent of the Holy Prophet (S) – A Fabulous Blessing<\/strong>
\nIt is not possible for a man to achieve spiritual excellence without the love and obedience of a spiritual father.
\n\u201cCertainly Allah conferred a benefit upon the believers when he raised among them an apostle from among themselves, reciting to them His communications and purifying them, and teaching them the book and the wisdom, although before that they were surely in manifest error.\u201d (Surah \u0100li- \u2018Imran 3:164)
\nThis verse signifies the importance of the advent of the Holy Prophet (S) by Allah (S.w.T.) for the guidance of mankind. We must acknowledge it as the greatest blessing of Allah (S.w.T.) and a favour that He bestowed upon His creatures.<\/p>\n

The Wil\u0101yat of Ahl ul-Bayt (a.s.) and the Worldly Comforts and Blessings<\/strong>
\nY\u016bnus Ibn Abdul Rahm\u0101n told Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.): \u201cThe love and Wil\u0101yat of Ahl ul-Bayt (a.s.) has been prescribed as your right upon us by Allah. I consider this blessing to be much superior to the worldly blessings.\u201d
\nImam (a.s.) was distraught and he replied: \u201cYou have made an inappropriate comparison. What are the worldly blessings? What is it more than eating, drinking and dressing? And you compare all these transient things with our love which is an everlasting reality?\u201d
\nWe have seen in the discussion on the rights of parents, that we can be \u2018\u0100q\u2019 of our spiritual fathers if we fail to fulfill their rights. Not all of us may be capable of fulfilling this duty to the fullest extent. But we should sincerely try our utmost to obey their commands. At the same time we should be fully aware of our deficiencies and failings and continually implore our infallible guides to pardon us.<\/p>\n

Who Are the Spiritual Fathers?<\/strong>
\nSilet ar-Rahm is Wajib and Qat\u2019a ar-Rahm is Har\u0101m towards our spiritual relatives also. Our Holy Prophet (S) and our Imams (a.s.) are our spiritual fathers. So, the descendants of our Holy Prophet (S) and the Imams (a.s.), that is the Sad\u0101t, are our spiritual relatives. Also, since the Holy Prophet (S) and the Imams (a.s.) are the spiritual fathers of all believers and Shias, we all are related to each other, and are like brothers of each other.
\n\u201cCertainly the Believers Are Brothers of Each Other.\u201d (Surah al-Hujur\u0101t 49:10)
\nThe verse clearly indicates that everyone is somehow related to a common spiritual father.<\/p>\n

Rights of Sad\u0101t<\/strong>
\nAllama Hilli in his book \u2018Qawaidul Ahkam\u2019 counsels his son Fakhrul Muhaqqiqain in the following words: \u201cYou should practise Silet ar-Rahm with the pure descendants of the Sad\u0101t also. The Almighty Allah (S.w.T.) has emphasized upon this duty so much that he has made the love of relatives of the Holy Prophet (S) as a compensation of the prophetic mission.\u201d
\n\u201c…Say: I do not ask of you any reward for it but love for my near relatives….\u201d (Surah ash-Sh\u016br\u0101 42:23)
\nThe Holy Prophet (S) said:
\n\u201cI shall intercede for four types of people even if they carry the sins of all humanity.\u201d
\n1) A person who has helped my descendants and progeny.
\n2) A person who has spent his wealth upon my descendants when they were in need.
\n3) A person who has loved my Progeny with his tongue and his heart.
\n4) A person who has considered the wants of my descendants when they were surrounded by enemies and were homeless.\u201d<\/p>\n

Does Anyone Have a Right Upon the Holy Prophet (S)?<\/strong>
\nHazrat Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) said: \u201cOn the day of Qiy\u0101ma a caller will announce, \u2018O people, keep silent, because Muhammad (S) is to say something to you.\u2019 Then the Messenger will arise and say, \u2018O people! If anyone of you has any right or favour upon me, or if there is any obligation upon my neck then he should stand up. I will see that he is compensated.\u2019 The people will reply, \u2018May our parents be sacrificed upon you. What right? What favour? And what obligation? Rather the rights and favours are of Allah and His Prophet upon all the creatures.\u2019<\/p>\n

Goodness to Sad\u0101t and Paradise<\/strong>
\nThen the Holy Prophet (S) shall say: \u201cNo, they do have a right. Whoever has provided shelter and help to anyone from my Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) or did good to them or gave them clothes in their need or fed them when they were in need, should stand up so that I can recompense him.\u201d
\nSome people who had performed such deeds will arise. Then the voice of the Almighty shall be heard. \u201cO Muhammad, my loved one! With due regards to your position I have fixed the reward for their deeds. They shall be given whatever position you intend for them in Paradise.\u201d Then Allah (S.w.T.) shall give them a place near the Holy Prophet (S) and his Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) and there would be nothing to obstruct their view.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rights of the Brothers in Faith<\/strong>
\nThere are numerous traditions in connection with the rights of the believers and brothers-in-faith. A few of such traditions are quoted below: Mualla Bin-Khan\u012bs asked Imam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.): \u201cWhat are the rights of the believing brother?\u201d
\nImam (a.s.) replied, \u201cSeven rights of the believers are Wajib – If one fails to fulfill even one of these rights, he is externed from Allah\u2019s obedience. He shall not receive any reward from the Almighty.\u201d
\n\u201cWhat are those seven rights?\u201d, enquired Mualla.
\nImam (a.s.) said, \u201c I fear that you may fail to act upon them.\u201d
\nMualla said, \u201cLa Quwwata Illa Billah.\u201d There is no power except of Allah. (He meant, It wouldn\u2019t be so).
\nImam Ja\u2019far as-Sadiq (a.s.) said, \u201cThe foremost right is that you wish for the believing brothers whatever you wish for yourself.\u201d
\nImam (a.s.) then related the other six rights, \u201cThe second right is that you must refrain from angering him and try to seek his pleasure and obey him. The third right is that you help him with you life, your wealth, your tongue, and your hands. The fourth right is that you guide him and teach him that which is beneficial for him. The fifth, is that do not eat till satiation when your believing brother is hungry, and do not drink to satiation if he is thirsty, and do not dress nicely if he is deprived of good clothes. The sixth right is that if you have a servant you should send him to do his work. The seventh right is that if the believing brother says something on oath you should believe him, if he invites, you accept his invitation, if he is sick, visit him, if he dies, accompany his bier, if you come to know any of his needs, fulfill them it before he asks.\u201d (al-K\u0101fi)
\nSilet ar-Rahm with the Imam (a.s.)
\nImam Ri\u010fa (a.s.) has informed, \u201cThose who cannot come for our Ziarat must visit our virtuous followers. They shall get the reward of performing our Ziarat. And those who wish to do Silet ar-Rahm towards us but are unable to do so must do Silet ar-Rahm towards our pious devotees. They shall be given the reward of our Silet ar-Rahm.\u201d
\nRespect and honour for the believing brother is the same as respect and honour for the spiritual father (Imam [a.s.]). In the same way, insult and disrespect of the believing brother is equivalent to insult and disrespect to the spiritual father, (the infallible Imam [a.s.]). It is for very reason that insulting a believer brings the wrath of Allah (S.w.T.) upon us and makes us deserving of severe punishment.
\nWe shall conclude with the prayer that Allah (S.w.T.) may give Tawf\u012bq to all of us for doing Silet ar-Rahm and fulfilling the rights of others.
\nNotes:<\/strong>
\n[5] Al-Shah\u012bd Al-Thani Zain Al-Din Al-Jubli Al-Ameli.<\/em><\/p>\n

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