Followers Are Not Friends

TDT | Manama

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The world celebrates the International Day of Friendship today, a United Nations-established occasion recognising friendship's role in promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation across communities.

Islam also encourages friendship, emphasising communication and mutual understanding. The Holy Quran states in Surah Al-Hujurat (13) that humanity's diversity is an opportunity for connection, learning, and relationships built on respect.

Community members say genuine friendship provides emotional support, trust, and belonging.

Hussain Marhoon said true friendship is grounded in trust, honesty, and mutual respect, helping people navigate challenges with confidence. He added that while social media has widened social circles, it cannot replace friendships built on sincerity and loyalty.

Ammar Ahmed Tareef described friendship as a lifelong responsibility requiring loyalty, understanding, and forgiveness—a quality best proven through actions during difficult times.

Mother-of-three Zainab Al Oraibi actively ensures her children's friendships develop within similar social environments, prioritising shared values in upbringing and morals to build stable, lasting bonds.

Sawsan Darwish said the day honours those who offer comfort without being asked and whose loyalty is unchanged by distance or time — a reminder that humanity still holds kindness and goodness.