Hadith #869

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns Muslims about the importance of choosing their friends wisely. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be cautious of those whose friendship is not for the sake of Allah, as their friendship is wicked and their company is doomed.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (mawaddatuhu) "مَوَدَّتُهُ" in the Hadith refers to friendship or love. It is derived from the root word (wadda) "وَدَّ", which means to love, cherish, or hold affection for someone. In this context, it signifies a deep bond of friendship and loyalty.

The Hadith emphasizes that true friendship should be based on the love and devotion to Allah. This means that the primary motivation for forming friendships should be the desire to please Allah and seek His pleasure. When friendship is not rooted in the love of Allah, it becomes tainted and loses its moral and spiritual value.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:55), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 highlights the importance of choosing righteous companions who are devoted to Allah and follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Such companions are described as those who establish prayer, give zakah, and humble themselves in worship. Their friendship is based on a shared commitment to fulfilling the obligations of Islam and seeking closeness to Allah.

In Surah Al-Anfal (8:72), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 emphasizes the importance of forming alliances and friendships with those who share the same values and strive for the sake of Allah. True friends are those who support and assist one another in matters of faith and righteousness. Their friendship is based on a mutual commitment to the cause of Allah and the betterment of the Muslim community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of those whose friendship is not rooted in the love and devotion to Allah. Such friendships may lead to negative consequences and moral corruption. When we surround ourselves with friends who do not prioritize the pleasure of Allah, our own spiritual growth and moral compass may be compromised.

For example, if we befriend individuals who engage in sinful activities or have a negative influence on our character, we may find ourselves being led astray from the path of righteousness. Their wickedness may seep into our own actions and beliefs, causing us to deviate from the teachings of Islam.

On the other hand, when we choose friends who are devoted to Allah and strive to please Him, their positive influence can have a profound impact on our own spiritual journey. Their company can inspire us to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and strive for moral excellence. They can serve as a source of support, encouragement, and guidance on the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of choosing our friends wisely. True friendship should be based on the love and devotion to Allah, as this ensures the purity and righteousness of the relationship. By surrounding ourselves with friends who prioritize the pleasure of Allah, we can strengthen our faith, enhance our moral character, and strive for spiritual growth. May Allah guide us in forming friendships that are pleasing to Him and beneficial for our worldly and hereafter.