Hadith #646

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,

صَديقُ الجاهلِ مَتْعُوبٌ مَنكُوبٌ۔

This can be translated as,

The friend of an ignorant person is troubled and afflicted.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (sadeeq) "صَديقُ" refers to a friend or companion, someone with whom a person shares a close bond. (al-jahil) "الجاهلِ" refers to an ignorant person, someone lacking knowledge or understanding. (mat'oub) "مَتْعُوبٌ" means troubled or distressed, while (mankoub) "مَنكُوبٌ" means afflicted or stricken with calamity.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and surrounding ourselves with righteous companions in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:28), Allah says,

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 knowledgeable and devoted to Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:96), Allah states,

Repel, by [means of] what is best, [their] evil. We are most knowing of what they describe.

This verse encourages believers to respond to ignorance and negativity with wisdom and kindness. By doing so, we can potentially guide the ignorant person towards knowledge and righteousness, while also protecting ourselves from the troubles and afflictions that may arise from associating with them.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious in choosing their friends and companions. Associating with an ignorant person can lead to various difficulties and challenges. Ignorance often breeds negativity, harmful behavior, and misguided actions. Such associations can negatively impact our own spiritual growth and well-being.

For instance, if we befriend someone who lacks knowledge and understanding of Islamic teachings, they may unknowingly influence us towards sinful actions or beliefs. Their ignorance may lead them to engage in harmful activities or hold incorrect beliefs, which can ultimately lead to negative consequences for both parties involved.

On the other hand, if we choose to surround ourselves with knowledgeable and righteous companions, we can benefit from their wisdom, guidance, and positive influence. Their knowledge and understanding of Islam can help us deepen our own faith, increase our understanding of the Quran and Sunnah, and navigate through the challenges of life with wisdom and piety.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the company we keep. Associating with ignorant individuals can lead to troubles and afflictions, while choosing righteous companions can bring about blessings and spiritual growth. By seeking knowledge and surrounding ourselves with those who are knowledgeable and devoted to Allah, we can protect ourselves from the negative consequences of ignorance and ensure our own spiritual well-being. May Allah guide us all to choose companions who inspire us towards righteousness and grant us the wisdom to repel ignorance with kindness and knowledge.