Hadith #10847

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

Do not befriend the disbeliever and do not accompany the ignorant.

This enlightening saying holds great significance and guidance for Muslims in their interactions and relationships with others.

Let us first delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (tawaddu) "تُوادُّوا" means "to befriend" or

to have affection for.

It implies a deep emotional connection and attachment to someone. The word (al-kafir) "الكافِرَ" refers to a disbeliever, someone who rejects or denies the truth of Islam. The word (tusaahiboo) "تُصاحِبُوا" means "to accompany" or "to associate with." It suggests spending time and engaging in social interactions with someone. Lastly, the word (al-jahil) "الجاهِلَ" refers to the ignorant, someone lacking knowledge or understanding.

To understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8),

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating non-Muslims with fairness and justice, especially those who do not pose a threat to Muslims or their faith. It encourages Muslims to maintain good conduct and uphold justice in their interactions with others, regardless of their religious beliefs. However, it does not imply befriending or forming deep emotional attachments with disbelievers.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:51), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

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. Indeed, Allah guides not the wrongdoing people.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining loyalty and allegiance to fellow Muslims. It cautions against forming alliances or close friendships with those who may have conflicting beliefs or values. It is essential to remember that this guidance does not promote hatred or animosity towards non-Muslims but rather emphasizes the importance of preserving the integrity of one's faith and identity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious in their choice of companionship and associations. Befriending disbelievers can potentially lead to the dilution of one's faith and values. It can influence a person's beliefs and actions, leading them away from the path of righteousness.

Similarly, accompanying the ignorant can hinder one's intellectual and spiritual growth. The ignorant may lack knowledge and understanding of Islam, and their influence can lead to misguided actions and beliefs. Therefore, Muslims are advised to seek companionship with those who possess knowledge, wisdom, and a deep understanding of the faith.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) wise utterance serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their associations and friendships. It encourages them to seek companionship with those who share their faith and values, as well as those who possess knowledge and understanding. By doing so, Muslims can protect their faith, nurture their spiritual growth, and contribute positively to society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a guiding principle for Muslims in their interactions and relationships. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining loyalty to fellow Muslims and being cautious in forming deep emotional attachments with disbelievers. By seeking companionship with those who share their faith and possess knowledge, Muslims can safeguard their faith, nurture their spiritual growth, and contribute positively to society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to implement this guidance in our lives.