the sunnah of keeping good company: how surrounding yourself with righteous individuals transforms your life
in the journey of life, the company you keep profoundly influences your character, faith, and overall well-being. the ahadith provide invaluable guidance on the importance of surrounding yourself with good, righteous individuals, highlighting how positive relationships can uplift, inspire, and steer you toward success. discover how adopting good company can transform your life and strengthen your spiritual path.
the divine wisdom of good company
islam emphasizes the significance of choosing the right companions, as they play a crucial role in shaping your values and behavior. the prophet muhammad ﷺ said: the summary of hadith is: “the example of a good companion and a bad companion is like that of the seller of musk and the blacksmith. the seller of musk will either give you some or you will buy from him or at least you will get a pleasant smell from him. the blacksmith will either burn your clothes or you will get a foul smell from him.”
— (sahih bukhari, hadith 2101)
this hadith underscores the impact that companions can have on your life, either enhancing it with goodness or leading it astray.
why keeping good company is essential
- spiritual upliftment and support:
a good company provides spiritual support and motivation, encouraging you to adhere to islamic teachings and strengthen your faith. the prophet ﷺ advised:
“a person is upon the religion of his friend, so let one of you look at whom he befriends.”
— (sunan abu dawood, hadith 4816)
surrounding yourself with righteous friends ensures that your spiritual journey is nurtured and guided by positive influences.
- positive influence and personal growth:
good companions inspire you to cultivate positive qualities and avoid negative behaviors. the quran states:
“and the muslim men and the muslim women are the friends (i.e. helpers) of one another; commanding good and forbidding evil, and keeping salah established and paying zakah, and obeying the commandment of allah and his messenger; they are those upon whom allah will soon show mercy; indeed, allah is dominant, ever wise.
— (quran, 9:71)
positive relationships encourage mutual growth and the reinforcement of good character and actions.
- strength in adversity:
during challenging times, supportive friends provide strength and encouragement. the prophet ﷺ said:
“allah almighty said: my love is assured for those who love each other for my sake, who sit together for my sake, who visit each other for my sake, and who spend on each other for my sake.”
- (musnad aḥmad 22030)
good friends stand by you, offering empathy and assistance, which helps you navigate life's trials with resilience and faith.
- increased motivation for righteous actions:
being in the company of those who are committed to righteous deeds motivates you to engage in similar actions because the obey the command of their lord who said in quran:
help one another in righteousness and piety, and do not help one another in sin and injustice,
— (5/2)
good company reinforces your dedication to performing righteous deeds and maintaining a pure heart.
- enhanced joy and contentment:
enjoying the company of good people brings joy, contentment, and a sense of belonging. among the companions, the closest companion, friend and great blessing is a person’s wife provided if she is pious soul. the prophet ﷺ considered her the best provision: he ﷺ said
“the world is but a provision and the best provision of the world is a righteous woman.”
— (sahih muslim, hadith 1467)
this principle extends to friendships; the companionship of good individuals contributes to a fulfilling and joyous life.
practical tips for cultivating good company
- seek like-minded individuals: surround yourself with people who share your values and commitment to islam, fostering a supportive and positive environment.
- be a positive influence: strive to be a good companion yourself, embodying the qualities you wish to see in others.
- engage in activities of Dawat-e-Islami: participate in community events such as weekly ijtimas, madrasa tul madinah for adults etc. to connect with righteous individuals.
surrounding yourself with righteous companions not only enhances your spiritual journey but also enriches your life with joy, support, and positive influence. embrace this guidance and witness how the right company can transform your life in remarkable ways.
