Hadith #9390

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, "مُصاحِبُ اللُّؤْمِ مَذْمُومٌ۔" This can be translated as,

The one who accompanies vileness is censured.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the teachings of the Quran.

The word (musahib) "مُصاحِبُ" refers to someone who accompanies or associates with others. It implies a close and continuous relationship with someone or something. The word (loum) "اللُّؤْمِ" refers to vileness, wickedness, or evil. It encompasses all forms of immoral behavior, whether it be in speech, actions, or character.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of choosing righteous companions and avoiding those who lead us astray. In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah says, (Quran 18:28)

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

This verse highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who are devoted to Allah and engage in acts of worship. By doing so, we are more likely to be influenced positively and encouraged to strive in our own spiritual journey. Conversely, if we choose to associate with those who engage in vileness and wickedness, we expose ourselves to negative influences that can lead us astray.

Another verse that sheds light on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Furqan, where Allah warns us about the consequences of following the wrong companions. Allah says, (Quran 25:27-29)

And [the Day] when the wrongdoer will bite on his hands [in regret] he will say, 'Oh, I wish I had taken with the Messenger a way. Oh, woe to me! I wish I had not taken that one as a friend. He led me away from the remembrance after it had come to me. And ever is Satan, to man, a deserter.'

This verse highlights the regret of those who followed the wrong companions and were led astray from the path of righteousness. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of choosing the wrong company and the importance of being cautious in our associations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the censure and disapproval that accompanies those who choose to associate with vileness. When we willingly surround ourselves with individuals who engage in immoral behavior, we become complicit in their actions and share in the blame. This Hadith serves as a reminder that our company has a profound impact on our character, actions, and ultimately our spiritual well-being.

By choosing righteous companions, we create an environment that nurtures our faith, encourages virtuous behavior, and helps us grow closer to Allah. Conversely, by associating with those who engage in vileness, we expose ourselves to negative influences that can tarnish our character and distance us from the path of righteousness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should evaluate our own associations and strive to surround ourselves with individuals who inspire us to be better Muslims. We should seek companions who remind us of Allah, encourage us to engage in acts of worship, and hold us accountable for our actions. By doing so, we can protect ourselves from the censure that accompanies those who choose to associate with vileness.

May Allah guide us in choosing righteous companions and protect us from the influence of vileness. May He grant us the wisdom to discern between good and evil and the strength to distance ourselves from those who lead us astray. Ameen.