Hadith #829

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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) advises Muslims to avoid the company of wicked individuals. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, emphasizes the negative consequences of associating with such people.

The word (suhbah) "صُحْبَةَ" in the Hadith refers to companionship or association. It implies spending time with someone, engaging in conversations, and sharing experiences. The word (al-laim) "اللَّئيمِ" refers to a wicked or evil person. This person possesses negative qualities and engages in harmful actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that if one frequents the company of a wicked person, they will face two negative consequences. Firstly, if the individual is blessed with a favor or success, the wicked person will envy them. Envy is a destructive emotion that arises when one desires what others possess and wishes for their downfall. This envy can lead to animosity and harm in relationships.

The Quran supports this concept of envy and its negative effects. In Surah Al-Qalam (68:17-18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, the righteous will be in gardens and pleasure, enjoying what their Lord has given them, and their Lord protected them from the punishment of Hellfire.

This ayah highlights the blessings bestowed upon the righteous and their protection from the punishment of Hellfire. Envious individuals, on the other hand, are unable to appreciate the blessings of others and may even wish harm upon them.

Secondly, if misfortune befalls the individual, the wicked person will abandon them. This abandonment reflects the insincerity and lack of loyalty of the wicked person. Instead of offering support and assistance during difficult times, they distance themselves, leaving the individual to face their challenges alone.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of sincere companionship and support during hardships. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This ayah reminds Muslims that they will face trials and tribulations in life. During these times, true companionship and support are essential to overcome difficulties.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice serves as a reminder to Muslims to carefully choose their companions. Associating with righteous individuals who possess positive qualities and engage in virtuous actions can have a profound impact on one's character and spiritual growth. On the other hand, associating with wicked individuals can lead to negative influences, envy, and abandonment during challenging times.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to surround ourselves with individuals who inspire us to be better Muslims, who support us in times of need, and who sincerely celebrate our successes. By doing so, we can create an environment that fosters personal growth, strengthens our faith, and brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in choosing righteous companions and protect us from the negative influences of the wicked.