Hadith #3756

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental effects of associating with individuals who are deeply attached to worldly affairs. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that such mingling tarnishes one's religion and weakens their certitude.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (khulṭatu) "خُلْطَةُ" refers to the act of mingling or associating with others. (ibnā'i al-dunyā) "أبْناءِ الدُّنْيا" refers to those who are attached to the materialistic aspects of this world, prioritizing worldly gains over spiritual matters. (tashīn) "تَشينُ" means to tarnish or corrupt, while (al-dīn) "الدّينَ" refers to religion. Lastly, (tuḍ'ifu) "تُضْعِفُ" means to weaken, and (al-yaqīn) "اليَقينَ" refers to certitude or conviction.

To further understand the implications of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse reminds us that the materialistic pursuits of this world are temporary and fleeting.

In Surah Al-Kahf (18:28), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us,

And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His countenance.

This verse emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who are devoted to the worship of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and who prioritize their spiritual growth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the negative consequences of associating with those who are attached to worldly affairs. When we mingle with such individuals, their materialistic mindset can influence us and tarnish our religion. Our focus shifts from seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to pursuing worldly gains. This can lead to neglecting our religious obligations, compromising our values, and weakening our faith.

For example, if we constantly surround ourselves with individuals who prioritize wealth, power, and status, we may be tempted to adopt their values and engage in unethical practices to achieve similar worldly success. This can lead us astray from the path of righteousness and compromise our religious principles.

Furthermore, associating with those who are deeply attached to this world can weaken our certitude or conviction in the existence and power of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we immerse ourselves in the materialistic pursuits of this world, we may become blinded to the greater purpose of our existence and lose sight of the eternal rewards that await us in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious in their associations and to prioritize their spiritual growth over worldly pursuits. By surrounding ourselves with individuals who are devoted to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and who prioritize their religion, we can protect our faith, strengthen our certitude, and strive towards attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in both this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the straight path and protect us from the negative influences of this world.