Hadith #5095

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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:

جِماعُ الشَّرِّ في مُقارَنَةِ(مقارَفَة) قَرينِ السُّوءِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as:

The consolidation of evil is in association with a wicked companion.

Let us begin by examining the important words in this Hadith. The word (jamāʿ) "جِماعُ" means consolidation or gathering, indicating the coming together or joining of something. (ash-sharr) "الشَّرِّ" refers to evil or harm, encompassing all actions and intentions that are morally wrong and detrimental. (muqāranah) "مُقارَنَةِ" means association or comparison, implying a close connection or companionship. And finally, (qarīn) "قَرينِ" refers to a companion or an associate, specifically one who shares a close bond or relationship.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of choosing righteous companions and warns against the detrimental effects of evil associations.

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. And let not your eyes pass beyond them, desiring adornments of the worldly life, and do not obey one whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance and who follows his desire and whose affair is ever [in] neglect.

This verse highlights the significance of surrounding oneself with righteous companions who remind us of Allah and strive for His pleasure. Such companions serve as a source of support, guidance, and inspiration on the path of righteousness. Conversely, associating with those who are heedless of Allah's remembrance and follow their desires can lead to spiritual negligence and deviation from the straight path.

In another verse, Allah warns us about the consequences of evil associations: (Quran 25:27-29)

And [mention] the Day when the wrongdoer will bite on his hands [in regret] he will say, 'Oh, I wish I had taken with the Messenger a way. Oh, woe to me! I wish I had not taken that one as a friend. He led me away from the remembrance after it had come to me. And ever is Satan, to man, a deserter.'

This verse illustrates the regret and remorse of those who followed the wrong path due to the influence of their wicked companions. It emphasizes the importance of choosing righteous companions who will guide us towards the remembrance of Allah and protect us from the whispers of Satan.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious in selecting their companions and associates. The consolidation of evil occurs when one willingly chooses to associate with a wicked companion, as their influence can lead to moral corruption, deviation from the truth, and the perpetration of evil deeds.

The consequences of such associations can be far-reaching. A wicked companion may encourage and normalize sinful behavior, leading one astray from the path of righteousness. They may also distort one's perception of right and wrong, making evil actions appear acceptable or even desirable. Moreover, the negative influence of a wicked companion can extend beyond immediate actions, affecting one's character, mindset, and overall spiritual well-being.

Conversely, associating with righteous companions who are steadfast in their faith and adherence to the teachings of Islam can have a transformative impact on an individual. They can provide guidance, support, and encouragement in the pursuit of righteousness. They serve as a source of inspiration, reminding us of our duties towards Allah and helping us to develop virtuous qualities.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of choosing our companions wisely. It warns against the consolidation of evil that occurs through association with wicked companions. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that highlight the significance of righteous companionship and the detrimental effects of evil associations, Muslims are reminded to seek the company of those who will help them grow spiritually, uphold moral values, and strive for the pleasure of Allah. May Allah guide us in selecting righteous companions and protect us from the influence of wicked companions.