Hadith #779

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

الصديق أفضل عدة وأبقى مودة

which translates to

A friend is a better asset and is more lasting in fondness.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance and value of true friendship in our lives.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (sadeeq) "صديق" refers to a friend, someone who is sincere, trustworthy, and loyal. This word carries a deeper meaning than just an acquaintance or a casual companion. It signifies a bond of trust, love, and support between individuals.

The word (udah) "عدة" means an asset or provision. It refers to something that is beneficial and valuable, which can be relied upon in times of need. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that a true friend is a precious asset, more valuable than any material possession.

Furthermore, the word (mawaddah) "مودة" means fondness or affection. It represents the deep emotional connection and love that exists between true friends. This fondness is not superficial or temporary, but rather enduring and long-lasting.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:63),

And He has put affection between their hearts. If you had spent all that is in the earth, you could not have put affection between their hearts, but Allah has done it.

This verse highlights the divine role in establishing and nurturing the bond of friendship.

In Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs the believers,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and justice, even if they do not share the same faith.

Reflecting on these Quranic verses, we can understand that true friendship is a blessing from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a bond that is established by Him, and it is a means through which we can demonstrate righteousness and justice. A true friend is someone who supports us in times of difficulty, guides us towards righteousness, and stands by our side through thick and thin.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the value of true friendship in this Hadith. He reminds us that a true friend is a valuable asset, more enduring than any material possession. A true friend is someone who brings joy, comfort, and support into our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of cultivating and cherishing true friendships. It reminds us that a true friend is a precious asset, more valuable than any worldly possession. Let us strive to be sincere, trustworthy, and loyal friends to others, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with true and lasting friendships.