Maintaining family ties refers to establishing and preserving connections with all relatives, whether in person or through virtual means. It is clear that the closer the relative is, the more important it is to maintain those ties.
Thus, connecting with and being kind to relatives is one of the essential ways of growth, self-improvement, and getting closer to God. After faith in God, it is considered one of the most virtuous religious actions[1]. Severing ties with relatives, on the other hand, is regarded as a form of betrayal against God[2]. God curses such people and distances them from His mercy[3].
In this regard, Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) has provided us with important guidance regarding the importance of maintaining family ties and their effects. He says:
“Maintaining family ties… will prosper cities and lengthen lifespans.”[4]
“Maintain family ties, even if it is just by greeting them.”[5]
“Connect with your relatives, even if it is by giving them a sip of water.”[6]
“The best family connection is that you avoid harming them.”[7]
Additionally, the Imam spoke about the boundaries of maintaining family ties, emphasizing that family connections are not limited to good and religious relatives. He recounts an incident from the time of their noble grandfather, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and says: “A man came to the Messenger of God (peace be upon him) and said: ‘O Messenger of God! I have relatives who only oppress me, sever ties with me, and insult me. Should I cut ties with them?'”
The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied: “In that case, God will leave all of you.”
The man asked: “So what should I do?”
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Maintain ties with those who sever ties with you, give to those who deprive you, and forgive those who wrong you. When you do this, God will support you against them.”[8]
Similarly, Ibn Humayd asked Imam Sadiq (peace be upon him): “Do relatives who oppose my religious beliefs have a right over me?”
Imam Sadiq (peace be upon him) replied: “Yes, they have a right over you, and nothing can sever this right.”[9]
Lastly, as a final piece of advice, Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) instructed his followers regarding the importance of maintaining family ties:
“Convey my greetings to those who follow me and act upon my words, and tell them I advise you to be God-fearing… Maintain ties with your close family and relatives. Attend their funerals, visit their sick, and fulfill their rights… (If you do this), it will be said: This person is a follower of Ja’far, and this act of yours makes me happy.”[10]
(Adapted from the book Mafatih al-Hayat by Ayatollah Jawadi Amoli, with summarization and additions)
Footnotes:
[1] Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 83 – Surah An-Nisa, Verse 36 – Surah Al-An’am, Verse 151
[2] Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 27 – Surah Ar-Ra’d, Verse 25
[3] Same source – Surah Muhammad, Verses 22 and 23
[4] Al-Kafi, Volume 2, Page 152
[5] Al-Kafi, Volume 2, Page 155
[6] Al-Kafi, Volume 2, Page 151
[7] Same source
[8] Al-Kafi, Volume 2, Page 150
[9] Al-Kafi, Volume 2, Page 157
[10] Al-Kafi, Volume 2, Page 636