Hadith #782

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The wise person is one who selects his friend carefully, for a man is gauged by his friend.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of choosing our companions wisely, as they have a profound impact on our character and actions.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (hazim) "حازمُ" refers to a wise or discerning person who possesses the ability to make sound judgments. This person is not easily swayed by emotions or external influences, but rather exercises wisdom and prudence in their decisions. The word (takhayyara) "تَخيَّرَ" means to carefully select or choose. It implies a deliberate and thoughtful process of choosing one's companions.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 28:

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 importance of surrounding ourselves with righteous individuals who are devoted to the worship of Allah. By associating with such companions, we are encouraged to strengthen our own faith and maintain steadfastness in our devotion.

Another Quranic verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 51:

O you who have believed, do not take the Jews and the Christians as allies. They are [in fact] allies of one another. And whoever is an ally to them among you - then indeed, he is [one] of them.

This verse cautions against forming close alliances with those who do not share our beliefs and values. It reminds us of the importance of choosing companions who align with our faith and principles.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the profound impact our friends have on our lives. Our companions influence our thoughts, actions, and ultimately shape our character. If we surround ourselves with righteous and pious individuals, we are more likely to be inspired towards goodness and righteousness. Conversely, if we choose companions who engage in sinful behavior or have negative influences, we may find ourselves being led astray.

For example, if we befriend individuals who are committed to regular prayer, charity, and seeking knowledge, we are more likely to adopt these virtuous habits ourselves. On the other hand, if we associate with those who engage in gossip, backbiting, or other sinful activities, we may find ourselves being drawn towards these negative behaviors.

Furthermore, our choice of companions can have long-lasting consequences. If we consistently surround ourselves with individuals who possess knowledge, wisdom, and piety, we will benefit from their guidance and support. This can lead to personal growth, spiritual development, and a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Conversely, if we choose companions who lack these qualities, we may find ourselves stagnant or even regressing in our faith.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of carefully selecting our friends. Our companions have a significant impact on our character, actions, and ultimately our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By surrounding ourselves with righteous individuals who inspire us towards goodness, we can strive to become better Muslims and fulfill our purpose in this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in choosing companions who will be a source of strength and support on our journey towards Him.