Treat Others the Way You Wish to Be Treated: A Timeless Lesson from Imam Hasan (peace be upon him)

Occasion of reflecting on this Hadith: 07^th Safar, the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (peace be upon him) (According to a narration)

Introduction

According to one historical narration, the 7th of Safar marks the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (peace be upon him). On this occasion, it is fitting to reflect upon one of his profound sayings that offers practical guidance for everyday life. Although expressed in only a few words, this advice provides a simple yet powerful principle for building healthy friendships, strong families, caring communities, and respectful relationships.

امام الحسن المجتبی (ع): وَصَاحِبِ النَّاسَ بِمِثْلِ مَا تُحِبُّ أَنْ يُصَاحِبُوكَ بِمِثْلِهِ

Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (as): “Treat people in the same manner that you would like them to treat you.” (Al-Tadhkirah al-Hamduniyyah, Vol. 1, p. 101)

Educational Messages of the Hadith for Teenagers and Youth

1. Use the Replacement Technique

Before you say or do anything, imagine that you are the other person. Ask yourself, “Would I be happy if someone treated me this way?”

Practical Challenge:

For one week, whenever you disagree with someone, pause for one minute and imagine how the situation looks from their point of view before you respond.

2. Treat Your Parents as You Hope to Be Treated One Day

Show your parents the respect and kindness you hope to receive from your own children in the future.

Practical Challenge: This week, do one act of kindness for your parents each day without being asked, such as helping at home, speaking politely or thanking them for something they do.

3. Be the Friend You Want to Have

If you want faithful, loyal and kind friends, start by being faithful, loyal and kind yourself.

Practical Challenge: This week, take one step closer to God, and strive to help your close friends grow closer to Him as well.

4. Think Before You Send

Before posting or sending a message, ask yourself: “Would I like someone to send this to me?”

Practical Challenge: Pause for 30 seconds before posting or replying online whenever you feel emotional.

5. Respect Everyone

Speak to classmates, teammates, and siblings with the same respect that you expect from them.

Practical Challenge: Spend one whole day avoiding sarcasm, teasing and rude comments.

6. Listen Like You Want to Be Heard

Give others your full attention when they speak.

Practical Challenge: Have one conversation today with your parents without any distraction.

Educational Messages of the Hadith for Parents

1. Choose What Is Right, Not What Is Easy

If something is good for your child, give it; if it is harmful, do not – regardless of what they want.

Practical Challenge: Before saying “yes” or “no,” ask yourself: “Am I making this decision because it is best for my child, or because it is easier for me?”

2. Live It and Talk About It

Apply this teaching of Imam Hassan (as) in your daily decisions, and explain to your children how it guides your choices.

Practical Challenge: This week, explain one family decision by saying, “I chose this because it is how I would want others to treat me.”

3. Practise Fairness at Home

Treat each child with fairness, while recognising their different needs.

Practical Challenge: Reflect at the end of each day on whether every child felt equally respected.

4. Speak the Way You Want Your Children to Speak

Polite words at home create polite hearts.

Practical Challenge: Use words such as “please”, “thank you” and “I’m sorry” more often throughout the week.

5. Respect Everyone’s Rights

At work or at home, do your duties in a way that does not take away anyone’s rights.

Practical Challenge: Today, review one decision you make at work or home and ask yourself: “Would I accept this if I were the other person?”

Educational Messages of the Hadith for Imams and Teachers

1. Teach Through Stories

Share stories of people who lived by this principle – or ignored it – and the results of their choices.

Practical Challenge: This week, tell one real-life or historical story and ask your audience what lesson they learned from it.

2. Teach the Way You Want to Be Taught

Give your best to every lesson, just as you would want your own teachers to teach you.

Practical Challenge: Before each lesson, ask yourself: “If I were the learner, would I be happy with the way I am teaching today?”

3. Teach the Value of Others’ Rights

Help people understand the importance of respecting others’ rights and avoiding any harm or injustice towards them.

Practical Challenge: This week, share one example or story that shows the consequences of respecting or violating people’s rights.