Hadith #707

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

شرُّ الاُلفَةِ إطِّراحُ الكُلفَةِ۔

This can be translated as,

The worst affinity is [one that leads to] putting someone into trouble.

Let us delve into the meaning of the important words in this Hadith. The word (ulfa) "اُلفَةِ" refers to an affinity or a close bond between individuals. It signifies a relationship that is built on trust, understanding, and mutual support. The word (ittirah) "إطِّراحُ" means to put or place something onto someone. And the word (kulfa) "كُلفَةِ" refers to trouble, burden, or hardship.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 2:

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse emphasizes the importance of forming alliances and bonds that are based on righteousness and piety. It warns against affiliations that lead to sin and aggression.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Asr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in verses 3-4:

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

These verses highlight the significance of surrounding ourselves with righteous individuals who encourage us towards truth and patience.

Now, let us reflect on the exegesis of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the worst kind of affinity, which is one that leads to putting someone into trouble. This implies that a true affinity should be based on mutual support, empathy, and the betterment of one another. It should not be a relationship that burdens or causes harm to others.

When we examine this Hadith in light of the Quranic teachings, we understand that forming alliances and friendships should be rooted in righteousness, piety, and the pursuit of truth. Our companions should inspire us to do good deeds, advise us towards patience, and help us navigate the challenges of life. Such relationships bring about positive outcomes and contribute to our spiritual growth.

Conversely, an affinity that leads to putting someone into trouble goes against the principles of Islam. It may involve encouraging others to engage in sinful acts, participating in aggression, or burdening others with hardships. This kind of relationship is detrimental to our spiritual well-being and can lead us astray from the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us to be cautious in choosing our companions and forming alliances. We should strive to surround ourselves with individuals who uplift us, guide us towards goodness, and help us navigate the challenges of life. By doing so, we can ensure that our relationships are based on the principles of Islam and contribute to our spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the kind of affinity we form with others. It urges us to seek companionship that is rooted in righteousness, piety, and the pursuit of truth. By doing so, we can avoid affiliations that lead to putting others into trouble and instead foster relationships that bring about positive outcomes and contribute to our spiritual development. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in choosing our companions wisely and bless us with righteous friendships.