Hadith #626

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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 من صدق غيبه

which translates to

A Friend is one whose friendship is true [even] in absence.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the essence of true friendship and the qualities that define a sincere companion.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the words used in this Hadith. The word (as-sadiq) "الصديق" refers to a true friend, someone who is loyal, trustworthy, and sincere in their friendship. This person is not only there for you in times of presence but also remains steadfast and loyal even when physically absent. The word (sadaqa) "صدق" means truthfulness, sincerity, and honesty. It signifies the authenticity and genuineness of the friendship. Lastly, the word (ghaybah) "غيبه" refers to absence or being away.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of true friendship in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 72:

Indeed, those who have believed and emigrated and fought with their wealth and lives in the cause of Allah and those who gave shelter and aided - they are allies of one another.

This verse highlights the bond of brotherhood and friendship among the believers, emphasizing their support and loyalty to each other, even in challenging circumstances.

Another verse that sheds light on the concept of true friendship is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 55:

Your ally is none but Allah and [therefore] His Messenger and those who have believed - those who establish prayer and give zakah, and they bow [in worship].

This verse emphasizes the importance of having Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His Messenger (ﷺ) as our ultimate allies. It also highlights the qualities of true believers who establish prayer, give zakah, and humble themselves in worship. These qualities are essential in fostering genuine friendships based on faith and righteousness.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. A true friend is not merely present in our lives when it is convenient or beneficial for them. Rather, they remain loyal and sincere even in our absence. They do not gossip, betray, or speak ill of us behind our backs. They uphold the values of honesty, trustworthiness, and loyalty, just as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified throughout his life.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was the epitome of knowledge, wisdom, and righteousness. His knowledge extended beyond the boundaries of this world, as he possessed divine knowledge granted to him by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). His friendship and companionship were sought after by many, and he was known for his unwavering loyalty and sincerity, even in the face of adversity.

The consequences of having true friends who remain loyal in our absence are immense. Such friendships provide us with emotional support, encouragement, and a sense of security. They strengthen our faith and help us navigate through the challenges of life. True friends are a source of comfort and solace, and their presence, even when physically absent, brings peace to our hearts.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of true friendship and the qualities that define a sincere companion. It urges us to be trustworthy, loyal, and sincere in our friendships, even when physically absent. This Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the significance of genuine bonds among believers. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with true friends who remain steadfast in their friendship, both in our presence and absence.