Treat Others as You Would Like to Be Treated

Introduction

The 28^th of Ṣafar marks the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Ḥasan al-Mujtabā (peace be upon him). On this occasion, we reflect on one of his timeless teachings – a principle that, if applied consistently, can transform our relationships: treating others as we wish to be treated ourselves.

Imam Ḥasan (AS):

صَاحِبِ اَلنَّاسَ مِثْلَ مَا تُحِبُّ أَنْ يُصَاحِبُوكَ بِهِ

“Treat people in the same way you would like them to treat you.” (Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 75, p. 116).

Educational messages of the hadith for teenagers and youth

1. Fairness Defines Humanity

Treating others as you expect to be treated is the very definition of fairness, and fairness is the foundation of being truly human.

Challenge: In your next interaction with friends or classmates, consciously choose the fair option, even if it benefits you less.

2. Use the Substitution Formula

To practise fairness, imagine yourself in the other person’s position – whether it’s your parents, friends, or teacher – and decide in a way you’d be happy with if the roles were reversed.

Challenge: Before making one decision today, pause and ask yourself: “If I were them, would I like this choice?”

3. Avoid Anger and Selfishness

Anger and selfishness are two common reasons why people fail to live by this teaching – avoid both to protect your fairness.

Challenge: The next time you feel irritated, count to ten and take a deep breath before you respond.

Educational messages of the hadith for parents

1. Raising Fair-Minded Children

Nurturing children to be fair and just is one of the main responsibilities of a parent.

Challenge: This week, notice one situation where your child needs guidance in fairness, and coach them through it instead of simply correcting them.

2. Treat Your Children as You Wish You Were Treated

Interact with your children the way you wish your own parents had treated you – with fairness, understanding, and dignity.

Challenge: Reflect on one childhood memory where you felt misunderstood and respond differently when facing a similar moment with your child.

3. Teach Fairness by Example

Consistently practise this hadith in your own dealings with others so your children naturally learn it from your actions.

Challenge: Share with your children one recent example where you treated someone fairly even when it wasn’t easy and explain why you chose that path.

Educational messages of the hadith for Imams and religious leaders

1. Clarify the Concept of Fairness

Clearly explain the definition of fairness (insaf) and practical ways to apply it in speech and behaviour, as many lack a clear understanding of such foundational values.

Challenge: In your next sermon or gathering, dedicate a short section to defining fairness and give three relatable, everyday examples of it in action.

2. Highlight the Importance of Religious Conduct Over Appearance

Show your audience that genuine Islamic behaviour matters more than mere religious appearance or expression.

Challenge: Share a real-life story where ethical conduct outweighed religious image and invite your audience to reflect on their own practices.

3. Explain the Practical Example of the Imams and Religious Leaders

Teach how the Ahl al-Bayt and righteous leaders lived by this hadith in real situations, making it relatable to people’s lives today.

Challenge: Choose one historical event from the life of an Imam that reflects fairness and narrate it with emphasis on how it can be applied in modern community life.