Hadiths Of Companionship _8258,Company_7561,friendship _7631

There is not a single individual who can confidently claim that he has never been influenced, in one way or another, by his friends and associates, and in fact, what we are today and where we are standing in life is partly the result of the choices we have made in terms of our friendships. 
And whether this inevitable influence is positive or negative is mainly contingent upon who it is that we choose to associate with. If we desire to make progress in all aspects of our lives, then we must surround ourselves with righteous and successful people [whose friendship will contribute to the quality of our lives] and keep away from the company of wicked people. 
The story of Uqbah is an excellent example of how one’s friend can have a tremendous impact on one's life and fate; he was one of the contemporaries of the prophet who came to believe in the prophet and his message, but then his close friend Ubayy heard about his conversion to Islam and succeeded to change his mind. The following verses, which were revealed about this incident, perfectly depict his state in the Hereafter and the immense regret that will overtake him: 
‘It will be a day when the wrongdoer will bite his hands, saying, ‘I wish I had followed the Apostle’s way! Woe to me! I wish I had not taken so and so as a friend! Certainly, he led me astray from the Reminder after it had come to me.’ The Quran [25:28] 
Parents must also pay extra attention to who their children befriend and spend time with Because young people are going through the most vulnerable stage of their lives and their character and morals are molded more easily. Therefore, being oblivious about the circle of their friends can cause irreparable damage to their personality and consequently their future.   

There is not a single individual who can confidently claim that he has never been influenced, in one way or another, by his friends and associates, and in fact, what we are today and where we are standing in life is partly the result of the choices we have made in terms of our friendships. 
And whether this inevitable influence is positive or negative is mainly contingent upon who it is that we choose to associate with. If we desire to make progress in all aspects of our lives, then we must surround ourselves with righteous and successful people [whose friendship will contribute to the quality of our lives] and keep away from the company of wicked people. 
The story of Uqbah is an excellent example of how one’s friend can have a tremendous impact on one's life and fate; he was one of the contemporaries of the prophet who came to believe in the prophet and his message, but then his close friend Ubayy heard about his conversion to Islam and succeeded to change his mind. The following verses, which were revealed about this incident, perfectly depict his state in the Hereafter and the immense regret that will overtake him: 
‘It will be a day when the wrongdoer will bite his hands, saying, ‘I wish I had followed the Apostle’s way! Woe to me! I wish I had not taken so and so as a friend! Certainly, he led me astray from the Reminder after it had come to me.’ The Quran [25:28] 
Parents must also pay extra attention to who their children befriend and spend time with Because young people are going through the most vulnerable stage of their lives and their character and morals are molded more easily. Therefore, being oblivious about the circle of their friends can cause irreparable damage to their personality and consequently their future.   

Hadith of Jesus (ʿĪsā) via Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq (a).

Hadith: "I cured the sick, healed the blind and the leper, and raised the dead by the permission of Allah. But I treated the fool and was unable to reform him."

When asked who the fool is, he said: "The one infatuated with his own opinion and himself—who sees every virtue as his own, claims all rights, and accepts no duty. For him, there is no remedy."

Main takeaway:

The worst illness is spiritual: Self-worship and arrogance. Even the greatest outward miracles cannot reform a heart that refuses humility.

Key points:

1. Divine Permission: The Lesson in Humility

Repeating "by the permission of Allah" clarifies that miracles affirm reliance on God, not personal greatness. This demonstrates humility, even for prophets.

2. The true "incurable" is the self. Jesus could heal bodies and restore life, yet he could not cure a heart captive to pride. This demonstrates how deeply dangerous and resistant to remedy, ego disease is.

3. Who is the "fool" (al-ahmaq)? Three traits:

Infatuated with his own opinion: Closed to correction and guidance (arrogance/ujb).

Claims every virtue for himself. Takes credit for every good thing while being blind to his faults and the grace of God and others.

- Demands rights and rejects duties: Feels entitled while shirking responsibility.

4. Why this condition is "incurable":

* No self-awareness: He doesn't recognize his sickness, so he won't seek help.

He rejects guidance because pride blocks him from receiving counsel, teaching, or revelation.

No will to change: Contentment in self-delusion removes motivation for reform.

5. Practical Lessons for the Believer:

The primary struggle is against the ego (nafs).

Cultivate humility (tawāḍuʿ) by acknowledging dependence on God and accepting correction.

Balance rights with duties. Claim what is your right, whereas you fulfill obligations to others.

Conclusion:

This narration warns that spiritual blindness, which is characterized by arrogance and self-worship, isolates a person from God, truth, and reform. The remedy is the opposite: humility, repentance, and an open mind to guidance.

The Ideal Companion

Narrated by Imam Sadiq (a) from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him and his progeny), this hadith conveys a crucial piece of advice from Jesus, son of Mary (PBUH), to his apostles. The Apostles' question, "Whose company are we to keep?" delves into a fundamental aspect of human life: the profound impact of our social circles on our spiritual and moral well-being. Jesus's response provides a timeless standard for identifying beneficial companionship.

1. The Context: Seeking Guidance in Association

The Apostles, dedicated disciples striving for spiritual purity, knew that their associations would inevitably influence their path. They sought companions who would actively aid them on their spiritual journey. This highlights the proactive nature of seeking beneficial relationships rather than passively accepting any association.

2. Jesus' Threefold Criteria for Ideal Companionship:

Jesus (peace be upon him) outlines three essential qualities, each of which addresses a different facet of human interaction and its spiritual impact.

"One whose sight makes you remember God" (مَن یُذَکِّرُکُمُ اللّه‏َ رُؤیَتُهُ): This refers to the visual impact of a person. Their presence should be a constant, gentle reminder of Allah. This doesn't mean that they must appear overtly pious, but rather, their demeanor, character, and very being reflect a deep connection with the divine. They might convey serenity, humility, or profound peace stemming from their relationship with God. In their presence, one is reminded of their own spiritual purpose, accountability to Allah, and the ultimate reality of existence. Their outward form serves as a catalyst for inner reflection and remembrance (dhikr).

"Whose speech adds to your knowledge": This criterion focuses on the power of their words. A beneficial companion is someone whose conversation enriches your understanding. This "knowledge" (ʿilm) is not merely secular or worldly information; it primarily refers to knowledge of the divine, religious wisdom, and insights that deepen one's faith and understanding of life's purpose. Their logic and reasoning (mantiq) should be sound, insightful, and constructive. It should help clarify doubts, dispel ignorance, and strengthen one's conviction in truth. Their conversation should elevate the mind and spirit, not distract or mislead.

"Whose conduct makes you yearn for the Hereafter" (و یُرَغِّبُکُم فی الآخِرَةِ عَمَلُهُ): This is perhaps the most potent criterion, focusing on the transformative power of example. A truly beneficial companion inspires a desire for the Hereafter through their actions (*'amal*). Their life is a testament to prioritizing eternal values over fleeting worldly pleasures. They demonstrate selflessness, sacrifice, patience, justice, and devotion to Allah through their deeds. Seeing their commitment to a life that pleases God and their detachment from excessive worldly pursuits naturally creates a desire within you for the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter. Their conduct serves as a living sermon, motivating you to follow their righteous example.

3. The Underlying Principle: Mutual Spiritual Advancement

Jesus's advice essentially emphasizes seeking out relationships that contribute to mutual spiritual growth. These are not just friends who entertain you or offer you superficial comfort. Rather, they are individuals who act as catalysts for your journey towards Allah. Such individuals are invaluable spiritual allies who help navigate life's challenges with faith and purpose.

4. Implication for Self-Reflection:

This hadith also serves as a powerful tool for self-reflection. We should ask ourselves:

Do I possess these qualities for others?

Does my presence remind others of God?

Does my speech contribute to their knowledge and understanding of faith?

Do my actions inspire them to strive for the Hereafter?

If we aspire to be beneficial companions, we must first cultivate these virtues within ourselves.

In conclusion:

The advice of Jesus (PBUH), as conveyed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny), provides a clear, actionable framework for choosing friends. It emphasizes that true friendship is a spiritual partnership where individuals uplift, enlighten, and inspire each other to live a life that pleases Allah and is rewarded in the Hereafter. The advice calls for discernment in our social circles, urging us to prioritize those who help us remember our Creator, deepen our understanding of faith, and strengthen our resolve to live for eternity.

The Double Standard of Judgement

 This profound statement addresses a common human failing: the inconsistent application of judgment, particularly towards others as opposed to oneself. The saying exposes the hypocrisy of those described as 'sinful servants of God' (عَبِيدَ اَلسَّوْءِ), who fall short in their obedience.

1. The target: 'God's sinful servants'

The phrase 'God's sinful servants' ('ubayd al-saw') points to individuals who, while perhaps outwardly identifying as believers or followers of divine teachings, exhibit flawed character and behaviour. They are servants of God in name only; their actions often deviate from Allah's will, leading them to sin.

2.The Inconsistent Judgment: Blaming Others for Suspicion

Jesus (PBUH) highlights a significant flaw: 'You blame people based on mere suspicion' (taloomoon al-nas 'ala al-ẓann).

'Taloomoon al-nas': This means to criticize, reproach, or blame others.

"Al-ẓann": This signifies 'based on suspicion' or 'on conjecture'.

It describes the tendency to be quick to judge others based on flimsy evidence, hearsay, assumptions, or mere perceptions without concrete proof. Such judgments are often harsh, swift, and unforgiving. People are condemned based on what is thought or suspected about them, rather than on confirmed facts. This reflects a lack of empathy and a readiness to find fault in others.

3.The Hypocrisy: Not Blaming Oneself for Certainty

A stark contrast is then presented: 'While you don't blame yourselves, even when you are certain of your own faults' (wa la taloomoon anfusakum 'ala al-yaqeen). You blame people based on mere suspicion,('Wa la taloomoon anfusakum': This means 'and you do not blame yourselveswhile you don't blame yourselves even while certain of your own faults.

"Al-yaqeen": This signifies 'even when it is certain' or 'when it is certain'.

This is the essence of the hypocrisy. These same individuals, who are so quick to condemn others based on mere suspicion, are remarkably lenient, or even entirely neglectful, when it comes to their own clear and undeniable faults. They are sure about their own shortcomings — their sins, character flaws, and failures to live up to divine standards — yet fail to hold themselves accountable. They do not acknowledge their mistakes, feel repentance, or take corrective action.

The underlying issues:

This saying highlights several deep-seated issues:

Self-deception: people often deceive themselves by seeing their own faults as minor or justifiable while exaggerating the perceived flaws of others.

Pride and arrogance: a sense of superiority leads one to believe that they are beyond reproach, while others are deserving of criticism.

Lack of self-awareness: a failure to examine one's conscience and acknowledge one's failings.

Spiritual weakness: The inability to apply the same standards of accountability to oneself as to others indicates spiritual immaturity and a lack of commitment to genuine self-reform.

The Call to Accountability and Justice:

Jesus' statement is a powerful call for self-accountability and fair, consistent judgment. It urges individuals to:

Turn the mirror inward: before judging others, critically examine oneself.

Apply standards consistently: Hold oneself to the same (or even higher) standards that one expects from others.

Acknowledge own faults: Be acutely aware of and remorseful for one's own sins and shortcomings.

Practice empathy: recognize that others, like you, are prone to error and approach them with compassion rather than quick judgment.

So, True righteousness lies in rigorous self-examination, accountability, and applying consistent moral standards to oneself before extending them to others. By abandoning this harmful double standard, individuals can embark on a genuine journey of self-improvement and strive towards the divine ideal.

This hadith offers valuable guidance on how to approach information and teachings. It suggests that we evaluate what is said based on its merits rather than relying solely on the speaker. We should always be discerning and critically evaluate the truth or falsehood of any statement, regardless of who says it.

Hadith:

" Jesus (PBUH) said: "Take the truth from the people of falsehood, and do not take falsehood from the people of truth. Be critical of speech."

Commentary:

This saying, attributed to the Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him), offers profound guidance on intellectual and spiritual discernment. It emphasizes the importance of seeking truth, avoiding falsehood, and critically evaluating all forms of speech and communication. It provides timeless wisdom on how to navigate a world where truth and falsehood are often intertwined, requiring individuals to cultivate humility and critical thinking.

1. "Take the truth from the people of falsehood..."

This part of the statement challenges us to recognize the universality and independence of truth from the character or reputation of the person delivering it.

Truth is absolute; it remains valid and beneficial, regardless of who speaks it. Even individuals generally associated with falsehood or with flawed character or reputation may occasionally speak or embody aspects of truth. It is our duty to recognize and accept truth, regardless of the source.

Overcoming bias is essential because humans often dismiss ideas or statements based on the speaker's identity rather than the content itself. The Prophet Jesus (PBUH) teaches us to overcome this bias and focus on the message rather than the messenger.

Extracting the Good: This requires discernment and wisdom. Even in a sea of errors or negativity, there may be kernels of truth from which we can benefit. The ability to identify these truths without being influenced by surrounding falsehoods is a key skill for those striving for righteousness and understanding.

2. "...and do not take falsehood from the people of truth."

This part of the hadith acknowledges that even those who are generally upright, truthful, and reliable can make mistakes.

Avoiding Blind Trust: While it is natural to trust truthful people, this hadith reminds us that truth must always be verified independently. Blind trust can lead to the inadvertent acceptance of falsehoods, even from well-meaning individuals.

Critical Evaluation:

Just as we are encouraged to accept truth from unexpected sources, we are also cautioned against accepting falsehoods, even when they come from individuals we admire. This ensures that our allegiance is to the truth itself and not to personalities or groups.

3. "Be critics of speech."

The final part of the hadith ties the previous teachings together by urging us to develop critical thinking and discernment skills in all forms of speech.

Critical thinking:

The Prophet Jesus (PBUH) emphasizes the importance of being active listeners and thinkers rather than passive recipients of information. Being "critics of speech" means analyzing, questioning, and evaluating the content of all communication to determine its truthfulness and usefulness.

Speech as a Tool:

Words have immense power to influence minds, shape beliefs, and guide actions. Therefore, it is essential to carefully evaluate what we hear or read to ensure that we embrace truth and reject falsehood.

Intellectual Responsibility:

This hadith reminds us of our responsibility to protect ourselves against misinformation, deception, and manipulation. It calls for intellectual vigilance and spiritual sincerity to ensure that our beliefs and actions align with what is right and just.

Key Lessons and Applications:

This hadith contains timeless wisdom that remains highly relevant in the modern world, where abundant information is often mixed with falsehoods. It teaches us:

Truth is universal. We must be willing to accept the truth, no matter where it comes from—even if it comes from someone we dislike or distrust.

Avoid blind loyalty. Even trustworthy individuals or groups can make mistakes. We must critically assess all claims and statements, prioritizing truth over personalities or affiliations.

Cultivate discernment. The ability to evaluate speech critically is essential for navigating a world full of conflicting information, opinions, and ideologies.

Maintain humility:

This hadith encourages us to be humble in our pursuit of truth, recognizing that it may come from unexpected sources and that even those we admire can make mistakes.

Be open yet cautious: balance is key. While we should be open to accepting truth from all sources, we must also be careful to avoid falsehoods, even from those we trust.

Conclusion:

The Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him) provides a powerful framework for intellectual and spiritual discernment. This hadith challenges us to move beyond superficial judgments and focus on the essence of truth and falsehood. It calls us to be seekers of truth, regardless of its source, and to critically evaluate all speech, ensuring that we align ourselves with what is righteous and beneficial. In doing so, we become individuals who are both intellectually vigilant and spiritually sincere, prioritizing truth above all else.

This profound statement, attributed to the Prophet Jesus, encapsulates the essence of true knowledge and its transformative power. It emphasises the interconnectedness of knowledge, action and teaching. The hadith highlights that those who are knowledgeable, act according to their knowledge, and teach it to others are honoured in the highest realms of existence.

1. The Importance of Knowledge

Foundation of Action: The Hadith begins with the premise of knowledge. Knowledge is the basis upon which actions are built. Merely possessing knowledge is not enough; one must also understand its implications and responsibilities. In this context, knowledge refers to spiritual truths and practical wisdom that guide individuals towards righteous living.

2. Acting upon knowledge:

Integration of Theory and Practice: The second part of the hadith emphasises the importance of putting knowledge into practice. This integration of theory and practice is essential, as knowledge without action is inadequate and may result in arrogance or complacency.

The transformative power of action: When individuals put their knowledge into practice, they benefit themselves and contribute positively to their communities. Actions grounded in knowledge cultivate virtues such as compassion, justice and humility, reflecting the values that knowledge imparts.

Moral responsibility: Acting upon knowledge also entails moral responsibility. This involves living in accordance with the truths one has learned and embodying them in daily life. It is this commitment to putting knowledge into practice that distinguishes a learned person from a mere scholar.

3. Teaching knowledge:

Sharing wisdom: The final aspect of the hadith emphasises the importance of teaching others. Sharing knowledge amplifies its impact, allowing it to resonate within a broader community. Teaching is an act of service that fosters growth and enlightenment in others.

Legacy of Knowledge: By teaching, individuals contribute to a legacy of wisdom that transcends their lifetime. This ensures the preservation and propagation of knowledge, creating a ripple effect of understanding and moral development throughout society.

Divine Reward: According to the Hadith, those who teach are held in high regard in the heavens. This divine recognition highlights the importance of sharing knowledge as a means of achieving spiritual elevation.

Conclusion:

This Hadith from Jesus (peace be upon him) is a profound reminder that knowledge, action and teaching are all interconnected. It encourages individuals to seek knowledge, embody it through their actions, and share it with others. The promise of being honoured in the highest heavens emphasises the spiritual importance of these endeavours.

In a world often driven by material success and superficial achievements, this hadith encourages deeper reflection on how to live a meaningful and impactful life. By committing to the principles of knowledge, action and teaching, individuals can elevate themselves and contribute to a more enlightened and compassionate society, ultimately attaining a revered status in the divine realm.