Hadith #848

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of carefully choosing our friends and acquaintances. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to assess and evaluate individuals before forming close bonds with them. He urges us to make a conscious effort to understand their character, values, and actions. By doing so, we can avoid associating with those who may lead us astray or have negative influences on our lives.

The word (ikhtibar) "اخْتِبَارَ" in the Hadith refers to the act of assessing or evaluating someone. It implies the need to examine a person's qualities, behavior, and intentions before establishing a close relationship with them. This evaluation is crucial because our friends can greatly impact our thoughts, actions, and overall well-being. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran:

(Quran 25:27-28)

And (remember) the Day when the wrongdoer will bite his hands and 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.'

This verse highlights the regret of those who chose the wrong companions in this world. It serves as a reminder that our choices in friendship can have long-lasting consequences, both in this life and the hereafter. Therefore, it is essential to carefully evaluate the character and values of those we choose to associate with.

The word (istizhar) "استِظْهَارَ" in the Hadith means to make an effort to find out about someone. It implies the need to seek information and knowledge about an individual before forming a close bond with them. This can be done by observing their behavior, seeking advice from trustworthy sources, and considering their reputation among others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us in the Quran:

(Quran 49:6)

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of verifying information and seeking the truth before making judgments or forming relationships. It encourages us to be cautious and not to rely solely on appearances or hearsay. By seeking knowledge and understanding, we can make informed decisions about the people we choose to associate with.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us of the consequences of not assessing and evaluating individuals before forming close bonds with them. He states that if we fail to do so, we may be forced by necessity to associate with the wicked. This can lead to negative influences on our beliefs, actions, and overall character. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran:

(Quran 11:113)

And do not incline toward those who do wrong, lest you be touched by the Fire, and you would not have other than Allah any protectors; then you would not be helped.

This verse serves as a warning against associating with those who engage in wrongdoing. It highlights the potential harm and negative consequences that can arise from such associations. By choosing our friends wisely and avoiding the company of the wicked, we protect ourselves from falling into sin and straying from the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of carefully choosing our friends and acquaintances. It urges us to assess and evaluate individuals before forming close bonds with them, in order to avoid negative influences and potential harm. By seeking knowledge, understanding, and making informed decisions, we can surround ourselves with righteous companions who will support us in our journey towards Allah's pleasure. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in choosing the right friends and protect us from the company of the wicked.