Sulaiman bin Jahm Al-Ansaari (rahimahullah) once offered to sell his house in exchange for a hundred thousand dirhams. When those who were interested approached him, he asked them: “The house is for sale in exchange of a hundred thousand dirhams, but how much will you pay for being the neighbour of Sa’eed bin ‘Aas (rahimahullah).” They replied: “Is that something anyone ever “pays a price for?” He said: “Then in that case, call this deal off! By Allah, I can never leave such a neighbour who, whenever he does not see me he enquires about me and whenever he sees me, he is most warm and welcoming towards me. If I leave home for any errand then he takes special care of whatever belongings I’ve left behind. If I am at home then he always makes himself available to assist me. If I have to ask him for anything then he grants it to me most willingly. And when I don’t ask then he approaches me enquiring whether there is anything I need. If any calamity befalls me then he is first to come to my aid.”
When this reached Sa’eed (rahimaullah) he sent a hundred thousand dirhams as a gift to him. (Risaalatul Mustarshideen pg. 197)
Lesson: Compassion and kindness are very great qualities. These qualities earn the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and are also a means of great blessings in this world and the hereafter. Equally important is to acknowledge and appreciate the favours of others. Sulaiman bin Jahm (rahimahullah) appreciated these favours and whole heartedly expressed his appreciation by praising the good qualities of his neighbour. This gratitude became the means of even more favours showering upon him. Therefore, always be grateful.