Hadith #6835

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ خالَطَ النّاسَ نالَهُ مَكْرُهُمْ۔

This can be translated as,

One who mingles with the people is affected by their devices.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of being cautious and aware of the intentions and actions of those around us.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (khalaṭa) "خالَطَ" means to mix or mingle with others. It implies engaging in social interactions and being part of a community. The term (an-nas) "النّاسَ" refers to people in general, encompassing both believers and non-believers. Lastly, (makruhum) "مَكْرُهُمْ" translates to their devices or schemes, indicating the deceptive plans and strategies employed by individuals.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Imran, verse 118,

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَتَّخِذُوا بِطَانَةً مِّن دُونِكُمْ لَا يَأْلُونَكُمْ خَبَالًا وَدُّوا مَا عَنِتُّمْ قَدْ بَدَتِ الْبَغْضَاءُ مِنْ أَفْوَاهِهِمْ وَمَا تُخْفِي صُدُورُهُمْ أَكْبَرُ ۚ قَدْ بَيَّنَّا لَكُمُ الْآيَاتِ ۖ إِن كُنتُمْ تَعْقِلُونَ

which means,

O you who have believed, do not take as intimates those other than yourselves, for they will not spare you [any] ruin. They wish you would have hardship. Hatred has already appeared from their mouths, and what their breasts conceal is greater. We have certainly made clear to you the signs, if you will use reason.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being cautious in choosing our companions and intimates. It warns us against forming close relationships with those who hold ill intentions towards us. Their deceitful nature and hidden animosity can lead to harm and ruin. Therefore, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to be mindful of the company we keep and the potential influence it can have on us.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah, verse 8, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

لَّا يَنْهَاكُمُ اللَّهُ عَنِ الَّذِينَ لَمْ يُقَاتِلُوكُمْ فِي الدِّينِ وَلَمْ يُخْرِجُوكُم مِّن دِيَارِكُمْ أَن تَبَرُّوهُمْ وَتُقْسِطُوا إِلَيْهِمْ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ الْمُقْسِطِينَ

which means,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse encourages Muslims to maintain justice and fairness towards those who do not oppose or harm them due to their faith. It teaches us to treat others with kindness and equity, regardless of their beliefs. However, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us to be cautious even in such interactions, as people may still harbor hidden motives and schemes.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, making his words highly valuable. His statement in this Hadith serves as a reminder that our surroundings and the people we associate with can have a significant impact on our thoughts, actions, and character. When we mingle with individuals who have ulterior motives or engage in deceptive practices, we risk being influenced by their negative traits and actions.

For instance, if we spend time with individuals who engage in dishonesty, gossip, or backbiting, we may unknowingly adopt these behaviors ourselves. Similarly, associating with those who have a negative outlook on life can gradually affect our own perspective and attitude. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of the company we keep and to surround ourselves with individuals who inspire us to be better Muslims and human beings.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious and aware of the intentions and actions of those around us. It highlights the importance of choosing our companions wisely and being mindful of the potential influence they can have on us. By aligning our social interactions with the teachings of the Quran, we can strive to maintain righteousness, justice, and integrity in our relationships. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in selecting righteous companions and protect us from the harmful devices of others.