Hadith #710

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he beautifully compares the effect of companionship with the righteous to the wind that carries the fragrance of perfume. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (suhbah) "صُحْبَةُ", which means companionship or association. It refers to the act of being in the company of someone, sharing their thoughts, actions, and values. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of choosing righteous companions, as their influence can lead one to acquire righteousness.

The word (akhyaar) "أخْيارِ" in the Hadith refers to the righteous individuals. These are the people who possess noble qualities, adhere to the teachings of Islam, and strive to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By associating with such individuals, one can benefit from their knowledge, piety, and good deeds.

To support the concept of the influence of companionship, the Quran provides us with numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (18:28):

And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His countenance. And let not your eyes pass beyond them, desiring adornments of the worldly life, and do not obey one whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance and who follows his desire and whose affair is ever [in] neglect.

This verse highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who remember and worship Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By being in the company of those who are devoted to their Lord, one can strengthen their own faith and acquire righteousness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse emphasizes the importance of obeying Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), but it also indirectly highlights the significance of choosing righteous companions. When we surround ourselves with individuals who are obedient to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), we find strength, support, and encouragement in our journey towards righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further elucidates the impact of companionship by comparing it to the wind that carries the fragrance of perfume. Just as the wind carries the pleasant scent of perfume, the influence of righteous companions spreads goodness and virtue. Their actions, words, and character leave a lasting impression on those around them.

For instance, if one associates with individuals who are known for their honesty, integrity, and kindness, they are likely to adopt these qualities themselves. Similarly, if one surrounds themselves with individuals who are devoted to prayer, charity, and seeking knowledge, they are more likely to engage in these acts of worship themselves.

Conversely, if one associates with individuals who engage in sinful behavior or have negative influences, they may be led astray from the path of righteousness. This is why it is crucial for Muslims to choose their companions wisely and seek the company of those who will inspire and uplift them in their spiritual journey.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the profound impact of companionship with the righteous. By associating with individuals who possess noble qualities and adhere to the teachings of Islam, one can acquire righteousness and strengthen their faith. Just as the wind carries the fragrance of perfume, the influence of righteous companions spreads goodness and virtue. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in choosing righteous companions and grant us the wisdom to benefit from their company.