Hadith #10116

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,

كُلُّ أمْر يَميلُ إلى مِثْلِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

Every person inclines towards one who is like him.

In this beautiful saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights a fundamental aspect of human nature - the tendency to be attracted to those who share similar qualities, characteristics, or beliefs.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:24),

O you who have believed, respond to Allah and to the Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life. And know that Allah intervenes between a man and his heart and that to Him you will be gathered.

This verse emphasizes the importance of responding to the call of Allah and His Messenger, as it is through obedience to their teachings that we find true spiritual life and fulfillment.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:31), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.'

This verse highlights the connection between love for Allah and following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It is through emulating the Prophet's (ﷺ) character and actions that we can attain Allah's love and forgiveness.

Drawing from these Quranic verses, we can understand that the inclination towards those who are like us is not merely a superficial attraction, but rather a reflection of our innermost desires and aspirations. When we find individuals who share our values, beliefs, and goals, we are naturally drawn towards them because they resonate with our own inner inclinations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also holds profound implications for our personal growth and development. If we desire to improve ourselves and draw closer to Allah, it is essential to surround ourselves with individuals who possess the qualities and virtues we aspire to attain. By associating with righteous and knowledgeable individuals, we can learn from their wisdom, emulate their good deeds, and strengthen our own faith and character.

Conversely, if we choose to associate with those who possess negative traits or engage in sinful behavior, we risk being influenced by their actions and attitudes. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Mutaffifin (83:29-30),

Indeed, the record of the wicked is in sijjeen. And what can make you know what is sijjeen? It is [their destination recorded in] a register inscribed.

Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to be mindful of their company and to strive to surround themselves with individuals who will inspire and uplift them in their journey towards Allah's pleasure. This does not mean isolating ourselves from those who may have different beliefs or lifestyles, but rather being selective in our close companions and seeking out the company of those who will positively influence our spiritual growth.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the innate inclination we have towards those who are like us. It serves as a reminder to carefully choose our companions and seek out individuals who possess the qualities and virtues we aspire to attain. By surrounding ourselves with righteous individuals, we can learn from their example, strengthen our faith, and draw closer to Allah. May Allah guide us in choosing the right company and bless us with righteous companions who will aid us in our journey towards Him.