ONE HAS NO FRIEND, WHO HAS MANY FRIENDS

Story Of Khālid With Many Friends

Once a very popular man named Khālid lived in a hut nearby a bush in his farm. He had many friends. But he usually sat with his best friends; Muhammad, Mujāhid and Ādam outside his hut on a heap up fallen log. They would talk and have a good time.

One day, some hounds were after Khalid. But he managed to run to his friend; Muhammad. He told him about his trouble, but Muhammad said, "Sorry; my friend, I have some work to do in my farm, but other friends would help you". Disappointed, Khālid ran away.


Khālid next went to Mujāhid. But he also refused and said, "I have to go somewhere, my friend, but I'm sure that Ādam would help you". Khālid was again let down, for no one was ready to help him. He once again went away, disappointed.

Khālid then went straight to Ādam. But Ādam was a cowardice person; so, he said, "My friend, the hounds are known to attack both of us". Khālid now decided that he would not ask for anyone's help.

Khālid ran to the thickest part of the forest and hid himself behind a thick bush. The hounds were very close to him now, but somehow they were unable to see him and went away. Khālid was disappointed and said to himself, "I have realized that it is better to have a few trusted friends than a larger unfaithful group".

COMMENTARY

The story we just finish reading has a lot of lessons in it. The lessons will follow as per paragraphs.

=>No matter how many and far we have friends; there is always the ones amongst them (all) which we choose as best and loved most. But whenever we are selecting best friends, always know that the one we have chosen as the best also has a best friends.

=>Whenever we are in trouble; always rely on Allah first. The foremost thing required of you when you're in distress is seeking help and assistance from Allah. Because the one you went to see also has his/her own right and duty similar as yours if not more (sometimes).

=>Meeting people for help and assistance is also allowed in Islām if its not going beyond the fold and teachings of the Prophet (may peace be upon him). And whenever someone comes to you seeking help; and you know you're less helpful to them, never use harsh words or reply them with unsuitable responds. Instead; speak to them in a respectful way and manner or give them advice that might be helpful sometimes.

=>Always remember the advice of Allah in Sūratul Baqarah (Q2: vs 195) "...and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining], And do good; indeed, Allah love the doer of good." [Translation from: Sahih International].
Helping and assisting someone is actually a good deed (which Allah loved as well); but remember the initial statement not to cause destruction to your own self with your own hands. So, what's the point?; if you know the service you're rendering will cause you harm, the best you can do is to take a step back. Never go into what will hurt you thinking (to yourself) that you're doing what's known as good deed; and Allah knows best!

=>Sometimes; the best thing you can do to yourself is to fight and stand up for yourself. Because, that might be part of the better plan Allah has kept for you, though; whatever He (Allah) has planned or decreed for us is always the best. And whenever you do things per the will and wish of the Almighty, He brings you later on what we know as ease and assistance after hardship and endurance. Remember that! Wallāhu A'alam (and Allah knows best).


Story by: Aesop's Fables
Lessons Gathered by: Faqeeh Hokyky Ola (Admin)