ISLAMIC HOSPITALITY- RIGHTS & ETIQUETTE OF GUESTS

Based on the Quran and Sunnah, the rights of guests in Islam are rooted in generosity and respect, reflecting the host's faith. This reciprocal relationship includes rights for the guest and certain responsibilities for the host. 

Rights during the visit

• The right to a warm welcome: Guests should be greeted with a cheerful face and kind words, which is considered an act of charity.

  • Example: When Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) met a guest, he would greet them warmly and make them feel comfortable, even offering his own cushion.

  
  

• The right to be fed generously: The host should serve the best food and drink they can offer as soon as the guest arrives, without making them wait. This practice follows the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who quickly prepared a roasted calf for his visitors.

• The right to privacy and comfort: Guests are entitled to a clean, comfortable, and private space. Hosts should ensure a quiet environment for their guests to rest and sleep.

  • Example: A host should provide clean towels and toiletries, and remove any intimate belongings from the guest's view to ensure their comfort.

  
  

• The right to conversation: The host should engage in pleasant conversation with the guest, making them feel valued and included. It is considered bad etiquette to whisper or ignore a guest.

• The right to safety and security: Hosts are responsible for the well-being and security of their guests while they are under their roof. 

Duration of hospitality

• Three-day right: Islamic tradition recognizes a tiered system for hospitality.

  • First night: The guest is entitled to the most generous and superior level of hospitality.

  • Next two days: Normal hospitality is provided.

  • After three days: Any continued generosity from the host is considered sadaqah (charity).

• Avoid overstaying: A guest should be mindful not to overstay their welcome to the point of becoming a burden, which could put the host in a difficult position. 

Responsibilities of the guest

• Ask for permission: The guest should seek the host's permission before entering their home.

• Be content: A guest should be satisfied with whatever hospitality is offered and not complain about the food or arrangements.

• Maintain discretion: Guests should respect the host's privacy by not snooping or sharing private matters after their visit.

• Leave politely: The guest should leave with the host's permission and depart promptly after their visit has concluded.

• Pray for the host: It is a kind act for the guest to make a special prayer for the host after enjoying their hospitality, asking for Allah's blessings upon them. 

Example of prioritizing a guest

One famous story from Islamic history illustrates the importance of prioritizing a guest. A hungry traveler came to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who, having no food to give, asked his companions if anyone could host the man. One companion, Abu Talha, took the guest home, only to discover that his family had very little food for their own children. Rather than turn the guest away, Abu Talha and his wife gave all the food to the guest, pretending to eat in the dark so he would not feel awkward. The next day, the Prophet told Abu Talha that Allah was pleased with his family's selfless act, and revealed a Quranic verse highlighting their generosity.