The worst of guardians is a cruel ruler. Beware of becoming one of them.
It is better to sit alone than in company with the bad, and it is better still to sit with the good than alone. It is better to speak to a seeker of knowledge than to remain silent, but silence is better than idle words.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of choosing one's company wisely and valuing meaningful conversations over idle talk.
The quote highlights the significance of social interactions, advocating for the choice of companions carefully. It suggests that being alone is preferable to being in the company of negative influences, but engaging with positive individuals is even more beneficial. Additionally, it values knowledge and meaningful dialogue over silence, yet asserts that silence is preferable to meaningless chatter, thus promoting a thoughtful approach to both relationships and communication.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about friendship, one might use this quote to stress the importance of positive influences.
More from Muhammad
All quotes βIn Paradise there are things which no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human mind has thought of.
It is not within the character of a believer to curse, to damn, to speak or act improperly.
There will be no hatred or resentment among them, their hearts will be as one, and they will glorify God, morning and evening.
The best jihad is to speak a word of justice to an oppressive ruler.
Love for one's country is part of faith.
Similar quotes
Miracle workers learn to keep their own counsel. Something that's important to know about spiritual wisdom is that, when spoken at the wrong time, in the wrong place, or to the wrong person, the one who speaks sounds more like a fool than a wise one.
True peace of mind comes from accepting the worst. Psychologically, I think it means a release of energy.
There's a certain kind of research you have to listen to - the factual stuff, not opinion. Facts are facts. Sugar is sweet - it's not a matter of opinion. It just is.
Condemnation without investigation is the height of ignorance
Be kind to yourself. God thinks you're worth his kindness. And he's a good judge of character.
It's awfully important to win with humility. It's also important to lose. I hate to lose worse than anyone, but if you never lose you won't know how to act. If you lose with humility, then you can come back.