Silat ar-Rahim - Maintaining Family Ties
The duty to maintain and strengthen bonds with family and relatives.
Silat ar-Rahim (صلة الرحم) is maintaining ties of kinship. The word 'rahim' (womb) shares the same root as 'Rahman' (the Most Merciful), indicating the sacred nature of family bonds. The Prophet (PBUH) said that whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should maintain family ties. Cutting family ties is a major sin that may delay answered prayers. Silat ar-Rahim means staying connected even when relatives are difficult—the Prophet said true connection is maintaining ties with those who cut you off. Strong family networks create social stability and support.
Whoever would like his provision to be increased and his lifespan extended, let him maintain ties of kinship.
The scholars explain that 'rahim' (kinship) called out to Allah: 'This is the station of one who seeks refuge in You from being cut off.' Allah replied: 'I will maintain whoever maintains you, and cut off whoever cuts you off.'
Sahih Bukhari
Written about in
- What Islam says about community
Keeping kinship bonds intact is a duty, including with relatives who are difficult. Maintaining is the operative word, since ties decay if left alone.