Hadith #6836

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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,

مَنْ خالَطَ النّاسَ قَلَّ وَرَعُهُ۔

This can be translated into English as,

Whoever mingles with the people, his piety decreases.

Let us begin by examining the key words in this Hadith. The word (khalata) "خالَطَ" means to mix or associate with others. It implies engaging in social interactions and being part of a community. The word (an-nas) "النّاسَ" refers to people in general, encompassing all individuals. Lastly, (qalla wara'uhu) "قَلَّ وَرَعُهُ" means that one's piety or righteousness diminishes.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46),

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse highlights the importance of obedience to Allah and His Messenger. It encourages Muslims to avoid disputes and conflicts that can weaken their faith and resolve. Similarly, when one excessively engages in social interactions without maintaining a balance, their piety may decrease. This is because excessive mingling with others can lead to distractions, temptations, and the adoption of un-Islamic behaviors.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with righteous individuals and engaging in activities that promote piety. It encourages Muslims to cooperate in acts of goodness and righteousness while avoiding participation in sinful and aggressive behaviors. Therefore, if one mingles with people whose actions and beliefs contradict Islamic teachings, their own piety may be compromised.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious about the company they keep and the extent of their social interactions. It does not imply that one should completely isolate themselves from society, as Islam encourages active participation in the community. However, it highlights the need for individuals to be mindful of the influence others can have on their faith and to maintain a balance between social interactions and spiritual growth.

For example, if a person frequently associates with those who engage in sinful activities or have a negative influence, their own piety may gradually diminish. This can occur through the adoption of bad habits, the weakening of faith, or the neglect of religious obligations. On the other hand, if one surrounds themselves with righteous individuals who inspire and encourage them towards goodness, their piety is likely to increase.

It is important to note that this Hadith does not imply that all social interactions are detrimental to one's piety. Islam encourages Muslims to engage in positive and constructive relationships that promote righteousness and piety. However, it serves as a reminder to be cautious and selective in our associations, ensuring that they align with Islamic values and principles.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims to be mindful of the impact of their social interactions on their piety. It encourages us to surround ourselves with righteous individuals and to be cautious of the influence others can have on our faith. By maintaining a balance between social engagement and spiritual growth, we can strive to increase our piety and strengthen our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us in choosing righteous companions and protect us from any negative influences.