Hadith #5144

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:

جانِبُوا الأشْرارَ وجالِسُوا الاَْخْيارَ۔

This can be translated as:

Keep away from the wicked and sit in the company of the virtuous.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (jānibū) "جانِبُوا" means to distance oneself or keep away from something. In this context, it refers to avoiding the company and influence of the wicked. The word (al-ashrār) "الأشْرارَ" refers to those who are evil, corrupt, and engage in sinful actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to not only distance ourselves from the wicked but also to actively seek the company of the virtuous. The word (jālisū) "جالِسُوا" means to sit or associate with someone. Here, it refers to choosing the company of those who possess good character, righteousness, and piety.

This guidance from Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with righteous individuals in several verses. In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah says, (Quran 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 significance of choosing companions who are devoted to the worship of Allah and seek His pleasure. By associating with such individuals, we are more likely to be influenced positively and encouraged to engage in acts of worship.

In another verse, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 9:119)

O you who have believed, fear Allah and be with those who are true.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being in the company of those who are truthful and sincere in their faith. By doing so, we can strengthen our own faith and strive towards righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) guidance also highlights the potential consequences of our choice of companionship. The company we keep can greatly impact our actions, thoughts, and overall character. If we surround ourselves with the wicked, we are more likely to be influenced by their negative behavior and fall into sinful actions. On the other hand, if we choose the company of the virtuous, we are more likely to be inspired by their good deeds and strive towards righteousness.

Furthermore, the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the importance of self-reflection and accountability. By consciously choosing our companions, we take responsibility for our own spiritual growth and development. We must evaluate the impact of our associations and make a conscious effort to surround ourselves with those who will uplift and guide us towards the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to distance ourselves from the wicked and seek the company of the virtuous. This guidance aligns with the teachings of the Quran, emphasizing the importance of choosing righteous companions who will inspire and guide us towards the path of righteousness. By being mindful of our associations, we can protect ourselves from negative influences and strive towards spiritual growth and development. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to choose our companions wisely and bless us with the company of the virtuous.