Hadith #799

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.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) expresses his amazement at those who seek to have numerous companions, yet fail to prioritize the company of wise and pious scholars. The Imam wonders why someone would not choose to associate with individuals who possess knowledge, piety, and righteousness, as their companionship is a source of immense benefit and enrichment.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this hadith to understand its significance and the lessons we can derive from it. The key words in this hadith are:

1. التَّكثُّرِ (takaththur) - seeking more companions or associates. 2. الأصحابِ (al-asḥāb) - companions. 3. العُلَماءَ (al-ʿulamāʾ) - scholars. 4. الألِبَّاءَ (al-alibbāʾ) - the wise. 5. الأتقياءَ (al-atqiyyāʾ) - the pious.

To understand the beautiful message of this hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and associating with the righteous in the Quran. For example, in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah says,

O you who have believed, when you are told, 'Space yourselves' in assemblies, then make space; Allah will make space for you. And when you are told, 'Arise,' then arise; Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees. And Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse highlights the significance of associating with those who possess knowledge and righteousness. By doing so, one can benefit from their wisdom and guidance, and elevate their own spiritual status. The companionship of scholars and the wise is not only a means of acquiring knowledge but also a source of spiritual growth and development.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:28), Allah narrates the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and Khidr (a wise servant of Allah). When Musa asked to accompany Khidr and learn from him, Khidr replied, (18:68)

Indeed, with me you will never be able to have patience. And how can you have patience for what you do not encompass in knowledge?

This incident highlights the importance of seeking knowledge from those who possess it, as they can guide us in ways that we may not comprehend on our own.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this hadith emphasizes the importance of choosing companions wisely. Associating with scholars and the wise allows one to benefit from their knowledge, learn from their character, and be inspired by their piety. Their company serves as a source of guidance and a means of spiritual adornment.

By contrast, seeking companionship solely for the sake of increasing numbers may lead to distractions, negative influences, and a lack of spiritual growth. It is crucial for Muslims to prioritize the company of those who possess knowledge and piety, as they can provide guidance, support, and inspiration on the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, this hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the company of scholars and the wise. By associating with individuals who possess knowledge and piety, we can benefit from their wisdom, learn from their character, and be inspired to lead a righteous life. Let us strive to seek knowledge and surround ourselves with those who can guide us on the path of righteousness, as their companionship is truly a source of enrichment and adornment for our souls. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to choose our companions wisely and bless us with the company of the righteous.