Hadith #735

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights a universal truth about human nature and the dynamics of friendship. The key words in this Hadith are (friends) "إخوان", (prosperity) "جِفان", and (difficult times) "حادِثاتِ الزَّمان".

The word (friends) "إخوان" refers to individuals who share a bond of brotherhood and companionship. It signifies a close and intimate relationship between individuals who support and care for one another. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) points out that the number of true friends is significantly higher during times of prosperity, when everything is going well and life is easy. People tend to flock to those who are successful, wealthy, or influential, seeking to benefit from their good fortune.

On the other hand, during difficult times, when one is faced with challenges, hardships, or adversity, the number of true friends diminishes significantly. People tend to distance themselves from those who are going through tough times, as they fear being associated with them or being burdened by their problems. This Hadith serves as a reminder that true friendship is tested and revealed during times of difficulty, not just during times of ease.

This profound teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds support in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46):

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse emphasizes the importance of unity and support during challenging times. It reminds Muslims to stand together, support one another, and not let disputes weaken their resolve. It is during difficult times that true friends and allies are needed the most, as they provide strength, encouragement, and support.

Another verse that resonates with the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155):

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 verse reminds Muslims that they will inevitably face trials and tribulations in life. During these times, it is crucial to have true friends who stand by your side, offering comfort, solace, and assistance. True friends are those who remain steadfast and patient, providing a source of strength and encouragement.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound insight in this Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on the nature of their friendships. It urges us to seek genuine companionship that transcends materialistic gains and superficial connections. True friends are those who remain loyal, supportive, and compassionate during both times of ease and difficulty.

This Hadith also encourages us to be mindful of our own behavior and actions towards others. It reminds us to be there for our friends and loved ones during their times of need, offering our support, empathy, and assistance. By embodying the qualities of true friendship, we can create a strong and resilient community that supports one another through all the challenges of life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of true friendship and the reality of human nature. It reminds us to seek genuine companionship that transcends materialistic gains and superficial connections. It also encourages us to be there for others during their times of need, offering our support, empathy, and assistance. By embodying the qualities of true friendship, we can create a strong and resilient community that supports one another through all the challenges of life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to choose our friends wisely and the strength to be true friends to others.