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Question

What's mean of keeping good ties of kinship in Islam? Is it to have relations with family members or to live always with family? Is to live in ones own house when we are single mean that we cut ties of kinship or not?

Answer

Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds; and blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his Family and Companions.
Ties of kinship include every kindness, goodness and goodwill towards one's blood relatives or those who are given the status of relatives by marriage. Every word and act which might strengthen these ties and develop affection, kindness and co-operation between family members is considered as keeping good ties of kinship. Thereupon, living with them, if it is possible, is also a part of keeping those ties. Visiting them, talking with them in good manners, smiling at them, presenting gifts and helping them when they are in need are also ways to maintain good ties. The first purpose of maintaining good ties is to enjoin virtue on relatives, guide them to the best way when they seek one's guidance, call them to the truth and teach them those religious matters not familiar to them, etc. In a nutshell, all those actions which strengthen the ties of kinship and develop intimacy among relatives are considered as keeping good relations. Allah and His Prophet emphasized keeping good family ties. The rights of relatives vary from one to another. The nearest relative based upon his closeness deserves more right than the one far away. The right of the parents is greater than that of any other person, next the rights of one's own wife and children, and then the rights of brothers, and so on. Leaving family members and living in a different place is not considered as severing kinship unless one extends to them their rights, such as visiting them, being in contact with them, etc. Despite this permissibility, it is recommended that one live with them if it is possible. Since living together promotes kindness and affection among family members, and provides opportunities to share their happiness and trials. Allah knows best.

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