Hadith #719

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,

One who accompanies the wicked is like one who travels by sea, if he is saved from drowning he will still not be saved from the fear [of drowning].

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences and dangers of associating with evil companions.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith. The word (musahib) "مُصاحِبُ" refers to someone who accompanies or associates with others. (al-ashrar) "الأشرارِ" refers to the wicked or evil individuals. (karakib) "كراكِبِ" means one who travels or rides, and (al-bahr) "البَحرِ" signifies the sea. (al-gharaq) "الغَرَقِ" refers to drowning, while (al-faraq) "الفَرَقِ" means separation or being saved.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 2:

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing righteous companions and avoiding those who engage in sinful behavior. Associating with the wicked can lead to being influenced by their actions and beliefs, which can ultimately lead one astray.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 28, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) gives us the example of the companions of the cave who sought refuge from the corrupt society they lived in. They chose to separate themselves from the wicked and found safety and guidance in their isolation. This serves as a reminder that sometimes it is necessary to distance ourselves from those who may lead us towards wrongdoing.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) analogy of traveling by sea further illustrates the consequences of associating with the wicked. Just as one who travels by sea faces the constant fear of drowning, even if they manage to survive a specific incident, the fear remains. Similarly, those who accompany the wicked may escape the immediate harm caused by their companions, but the fear of being influenced by their actions and falling into sin persists.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to carefully choose their companions and to seek the company of those who are righteous and pious. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who embody the teachings of Islam and strive for goodness can have a positive impact on our own faith and character. Conversely, associating with those who engage in sinful behavior can lead to moral decline and spiritual harm.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, provides us with this profound advice to protect ourselves from the negative influences of the wicked. By reflecting on this Hadith and implementing its teachings in our lives, we can strive to maintain our faith and protect ourselves from the dangers of evil companionship. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to choose righteous companions and grant us the strength to distance ourselves from those who may lead us astray.