In every culture and faith, hospitality has long been honored as a noble trait — an expression of generosity, warmth, and shared humanity. In Islam, however, hospitality (ikraam al-daif) is more than tradition; it is a moral duty and a sign of sincere faith. Greeting a visitor, particularly a stranger, is more than just being polite; it’s a sign of our relationship with Allah and our understanding that everyone is His creation.
 The act of embracing someone can have a tremendous impact in a world that is becoming more and more moulded by individualism and a fear of the unknown. It unites people, underlines the value of human dignity, and opens hearts.

Hospitality in the Teachings of Islam

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ demonstrated the greatest standard of hospitality. He always welcomed every guest and urged his friends to treat visitors with respect — not just by offering food and shelter, but also with genuine kindness. He ﷺ said:

“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should honor their guest.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)
This hadith links the way one treats visitors directly to their beliefs. It signifies that welcoming others is crucial — it inherently stems from belief, compassion, and yielding to Allah.

Honoring the Guest and the Stranger

In Islamic culture, a visitor — especially one who is journeying or needs help — carries significant value

The Prophet ﷺ embraced not just his companions and family but also unfamiliar faces and, occasionally, past adversaries with grace and kindness.
 He also indicated that guests are a source of blessings. Their presence offers blessings to a household, and their prayers might act as a source of compassion for the host.
 The Qur’an emphasizes the story of Prophet Ibrahim عليه السلام, who quickly provided food to his unknown visitors without asking who they were. His generosity was spontaneous, sincere, and unwavering

Welcoming the Stranger Today

Contemporary hospitality can manifest in various ways. Although inviting someone into your home is a lovely gesture, welcoming a stranger can also signify
 Grinning kindly at a stranger in your neighborhood
 Creating opportunities for newcomers in meetings, places of worship, or workplaces.
 Engaging others in conversations and communal settings
 Offering support to travelers, relocated persons, or anyone in unfamiliar surroundings.
 Even a basic gesture — a kind word, a place at the table, a cup of tea offered — can uplift the mood of someone who feels out of place 

Hospitality as Worship

Hospitality turns into a kind of worship when it is offered sincere and for Allah’s benefit. Allah appreciates being kind and respectful to others without asking for anything in return. It exhibits His wonderful qualities: Al-Karīm (The Most Generous) and Ar-Raḥmān (The Most Merciful)

The Prophet ﷺ was once asked, “What is the best Islam?”
He replied:

“To feed others and greet those you know and those you don’t.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)

This hadith beautifully captures the spirit of true hospitality — extending kindness not only to friends, but also to strangers.

Reclaiming the Heart of Hospitality

Genuine hospitality isn’t defined by riches or extravagant dishes — it’s rooted in presence, authenticity, and respect. It signifies recognizing each individual as deserving of kin dness, no matter their background, looks, or convictions. In this manner, it serves as a reflection of taqwa (awareness of God), reminding us that every soul we encounter is part of Allah’s creation.

 Hospitality helps to foster community. It warms hearts, encourages trust, and cultivates spaces where individuals feel secure, acknowledged, and appreciated. In periods of separation and suspicion, just embracing another person as a fellow human can serve as a potent form of resistance and restoration

Conclusion: A Sunnah Worth Reviving

One of our faith’s most exquisite, useful, yet frequently disregarded sunnahs is to welcome strangers. Simply having a giving heart and being willing to share it with others is all that is needed.
 Therefore, the next time you see someone, whether they are a visitor, a neighbour, or a newcomer, stop, smile, and give them a warm greeting. Do your best, even if it’s just being kind.
Because we honour our faith, our Prophet ﷺ, and the One who created us all when we honour the stranger.

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