Hadith #1362

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

A believer is sorrowful in his thoughts [about himself], sparing in his friendship.

Let us delve into the profound meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (maghmoom) "مَغْمُومٌ" in Arabic refers to someone who is sorrowful or filled with grief. It signifies a state of deep contemplation and self-reflection. The believer is constantly introspective, pondering over his own actions and seeking to improve himself. This self-awareness is a fundamental characteristic of a true believer.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of self-reflection in the Quran. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:18), He says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow.

This verse reminds us to constantly evaluate our deeds and intentions, ensuring that they are in accordance with the teachings of Islam. The believer, being aware of the consequences of their actions, is filled with sorrow and concern for their own spiritual state.

The second part of the Hadith states, (danin bi khullatih) "ضَنينٌ بِخُلَّتِهِ", which can be translated as

sparing in his friendship.

This phrase highlights the cautiousness and selectiveness of the believer when it comes to choosing their companions. The believer understands the impact of their social circle on their faith and strives to surround themselves with righteous individuals who will support and guide them on the path of righteousness.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of choosing righteous companions. In Surah Al-Kahf (18:28), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His countenance.

This verse encourages believers to seek the company of those who are devoted to Allah and engage in acts of worship. By doing so, the believer ensures that their friendships are a source of spiritual growth and guidance.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of self-reflection and the impact of one's social circle on their faith. The believer is constantly introspective, evaluating their own actions and seeking to improve themselves. They are filled with sorrow and concern for their own spiritual state, always striving to be better. Additionally, the believer is selective in their friendships, surrounding themselves with righteous individuals who will aid them in their journey towards Allah.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to engage in self-reflection and carefully choose their companions. By constantly evaluating ourselves and seeking the company of righteous individuals, we can strengthen our faith and protect ourselves from negative influences. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be sorrowful in our thoughts and sparing in our friendships, and may He guide us on the path of righteousness.