Smiling at others is a sign of love and good character, which holds value in the eyes of God.
In the Holy Quran, the values and virtuous behaviors, such as smiling at others, are not explicitly mentioned. However, the principles and moral values articulated in the Quran include kindness and good character. In fact, these behaviors signify respect for others, love for humanity, and the creation of a positive atmosphere within society. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177, Allah emphasizes the importance of good conduct with others, stating that righteousness is not merely turning towards God and performing acts of worship but also involves treating people well. When we smile at others, this act can serve as a sign of affection and friendship, enhancing social relationships and reducing tensions. According to the Quran, doing good to others and fostering love among people is not only socially significant but also holds great value in the eyes of God. The life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also testifies to this fact. He always emphasized good character and virtuous behaviors towards others. Instances of such behaviors are observable in the Quran; for instance, in Surah Al-‘Alaq, verse 4, where Allah says, "He who taught by the pen," this education can also encompass moral behaviors. Therefore, it can be concluded that smiling at others can reflect love and good character, which is valuable in the eyes of God.
Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is in one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, and the Prophets and gives his wealth, in spite of his love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; and [those who] establish prayer and pay zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in times of hardship and adversity and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.
One day, a person named Mahdi decided to focus his life on improving his social relations. He wrote notes for himself that included affectionate behaviors like smiling at people. Every day, he made an effort to approach others with a smile and felt the positive impact of this practice in his life. After some time, not only did his relationships with others improve, but he also felt a greater sense of happiness.