Hadith #625

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

المُعينُ عَلَى الطَّاعَةِ خَيرُ الأصحابِ

which translates to

The one who assists [you] in obeying [Allah] is the best companion.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who support and encourage acts of obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To fully comprehend the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "المُعينُ" refers to the one who provides assistance or aid, while "الطَّاعَةِ" signifies obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Lastly, "الأصحابِ" refers to companions or associates.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the significance of surrounding ourselves with righteous companions who assist us in obeying Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (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 being in the company of those who remember and worship Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) regularly.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Asr (103:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And enjoin upon each other truth and enjoin upon each other patience.

This verse emphasizes the mutual responsibility of Muslims to encourage one another towards truth and patience. It implies that we should surround ourselves with individuals who assist us in doing good and remaining steadfast in our faith.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the profound impact that our companions can have on our spiritual journey. When we are surrounded by individuals who assist us in obeying Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), they become a source of support, motivation, and guidance. They remind us of our duties and responsibilities towards our Creator and encourage us to strive for righteousness.

Conversely, if we choose companions who do not prioritize obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), they may lead us astray and hinder our spiritual growth. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, (Sunan Abu Dawood)

A man follows the religion of his friend; so each one should consider whom he makes his friend

This Hadith further emphasizes the importance of choosing righteous companions who will assist us in obeying Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that our choice of companions is not merely a matter of personal preference or convenience. It has a profound impact on our faith, character, and overall spiritual well-being. Therefore, as Muslims, we should strive to surround ourselves with individuals who inspire and assist us in our journey towards obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of choosing righteous companions who assist us in obeying Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Through their support and encouragement, they become a source of strength and guidance on our spiritual path. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to choose our companions wisely and bless us with righteous companions who assist us in our obedience to Him.