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 →In 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
He wanted to care, and he could not care. For he had gone away and he could never go back anymore. The gates were closed, the sun was down, and there was no beauty left but the gray beauty of steel that withstands all time. Even the grief he could have borne was left behind in the country of youth, of illusion, of the richness of life, where his winter dreams had flourished.
Plans are of little importance, but planning is essential.
Any man who thinks he can be happy and prosperous by letting the government take care of him better take a closer look at the American Indian.
Humans are ridiculous. We're all pathetic strivers who will fall short. If you can accept that, it's optimistic because you can shoot for the moon and know you're never going to get there, and that's OK.
We acknowledge but one motive - to follow the truth as we know it, whithersoever it may lead us; but in our heart of hearts we are well assured that the truth which has made us free, will in the end make us glad also.
We listen to those whom we know to be of the same opinion as ourselves, and we call them wise for being of it; but we avoid such as differ from us.