Hadith #658

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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,

You should accompany the one who is intelligent and devout, for surely he is the best of companions.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of choosing our companions wisely, seeking the company of those who possess both intelligence and piety.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (muqarana) "مُقارَنَةِ" means to accompany or be in the company of someone. It implies a close association and interaction with individuals. (dhi al-'aql) "ذِي العَقلِ" refers to the one who possesses intelligence or wisdom. This intelligence encompasses both intellectual and emotional intelligence, as it involves making wise decisions and having a deep understanding of matters. (wad-din) "والدِّينِ" refers to the one who is devout and committed to their faith, practicing their religion sincerely and consistently.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 surrounding ourselves with individuals who are devoted to the worship of Allah, as their company can inspire and strengthen our own faith.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

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 emphasizes the importance of associating with individuals who are obedient to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), as their righteous actions and steadfastness can serve as a source of motivation and support for us.

Reflecting upon the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that the company we keep has a profound impact on our spiritual and intellectual growth. By choosing companions who are intelligent and devout, we surround ourselves with individuals who can guide us towards righteousness, provide insightful perspectives, and encourage us to strive for excellence in our faith and knowledge.

When we associate with those who possess intelligence, we benefit from their wisdom and understanding of various matters. Their intellectual capabilities enable them to analyze situations critically, make informed decisions, and offer valuable insights. This intellectual stimulation helps broaden our own understanding and enhances our ability to navigate the complexities of life.

Furthermore, being in the company of individuals who are devout and committed to their faith strengthens our own spirituality. Their unwavering dedication to worship, adherence to religious principles, and righteous conduct serve as a constant reminder and motivation for us to remain steadfast in our own faith. Their piety inspires us to deepen our connection with Allah, strive for moral excellence, and seek His pleasure in all aspects of our lives.

Conversely, if we choose companions who lack intelligence or are not devout, we may be influenced negatively. Their lack of wisdom may lead us astray, as they may make poor decisions or engage in harmful behaviors. Similarly, associating with those who are not committed to their faith may weaken our own religious convictions and hinder our spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of carefully selecting our companions. By choosing individuals who possess intelligence and piety, we surround ourselves with the best of companions who can guide us towards righteousness, broaden our knowledge, and strengthen our faith. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to choose our companions wisely and bless us with the company of those who bring us closer to Him.