Hadith #762

In the name of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his righteous companions.

The Hadith from Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) presents a profound piece of wisdom. The word (ikhtar) "إخْتَر" means "choose" or "select," indicating an active decision-making process. The term (jadeedahu) "جَديدَهُ" refers to "new" or "fresh," suggesting a preference for innovation or renewal in material aspects. Conversely, (al-ikhwan) "الإخوانِ" means "brothers," symbolizing close companions or friends, and (aqdamahum) "أقدَمَهَمْ" translates to "the oldest," emphasizing the value of longstanding relationships.

This guidance aligns with several Quranic principles. For instance, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse underscores the importance of maintaining and nurturing brotherly bonds, which are not only social but spiritual in nature. Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267), Allah (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ) advises,

O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned and from that which We have produced for you from the earth. And do not aim toward the defective therefrom, spending [from that] while you would not take it [yourself] except with closed eyes.

This ayah encourages Muslims to seek quality and excellence in their material possessions, reflecting the notion of choosing the "new" or "best" in worldly matters.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), renowned for his profound knowledge and wisdom, provides a balanced approach to life through this Hadith. By advising Muslims to choose the new in everything, he encourages embracing progress, innovation, and improvement in our worldly engagements. This can be seen in adopting new technologies, ideas, and methods that enhance our lives and contribute to our growth and development. However, when it comes to relationships, particularly with our brothers and friends, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the irreplaceable value of long-standing bonds. These relationships, built over time, are rich with shared experiences, trust, and understanding that cannot be easily replicated with newer acquaintances.

The motivation behind this guidance is to ensure that while we advance and adapt in our material lives, we do not neglect the timeless and enduring connections that provide us with emotional and spiritual support. The consequences of ignoring this advice can lead to a life filled with transient relationships and superficial connections, devoid of the depth and loyalty that long-term friendships offer. Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded to cherish and invest in their enduring relationships, recognizing them as a source of strength and stability amidst the ever-changing dynamics of the world. By balancing the pursuit of the new with the preservation of the old, we can lead a life that is both progressive and grounded in meaningful human connections.