Hadith #674

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, "بِئسَ القَرينُ الجَهُولُ۔" This can be translated as,

How bad a colleague the ignoramus is!

In this enlightening saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of associating with an ignorant person.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (qareen) "قَرِينُ" refers to a companion or associate, someone who is closely connected to us. (al-jahool) "الجَهُولُ" refers to an ignorant person, someone lacking knowledge and understanding.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and surrounding ourselves with knowledgeable individuals. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who are ignorant. Therefore, associating with an ignorant person can have detrimental effects on our own understanding and growth.

Furthermore, the Quran warns us about the consequences of following the ignorant. In Surah Al-Furqan (25:27), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And the Day the wrongdoer will bite on his hands [in regret] he will say, 'Oh, I wish I had taken with the Messenger a way.'

This verse highlights the regret and remorse that one will feel when they realize the negative influence of their ignorant companions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with knowledgeable individuals. By associating with the ignorant, we risk being influenced by their misguided beliefs and actions. Their lack of understanding can lead us astray from the path of righteousness and hinder our spiritual growth.

For example, if we associate with individuals who have a shallow understanding of Islam, they may propagate incorrect beliefs or engage in sinful actions. Their ignorance can cloud our judgment and lead us away from the true teachings of Islam. Therefore, it is crucial to choose our companions wisely and seek knowledge from those who are well-versed in the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious in choosing their companions. Associating with the ignorant can have detrimental effects on our spiritual growth and understanding of Islam. We should strive to surround ourselves with knowledgeable individuals who can guide us on the path of righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to discern between the knowledgeable and the ignorant, and protect us from the negative influence of the ignorant.