Anam 129
129- THIS IS HOW WE LET SOME TRANSGRESSORS BEING ALLIES AND FRIENDS TO OTHER TRANSGRESSORS; AS A RECOMPENSE FOR WHAT THEY EARNED.
It is natural that the righteous people will prefer the company of righteous people, and they will have each other for close allies and companions. On the other hand, the wicked will prefer the company of similar people, to join him in doing what they like to do without criticizing him. Allah the Highest said in Sorah El-Nour: "THE WICKED FEMALES ARE FOR THE WICKED MALES, AND THE WICKED MALES ARE FOR THE WICKED FEMALES; AND THE GOOD AND PURE FEMALES ARE FOR THE GOOD AND PURE MALES, AND THE GOOD AND PURE MALES ARE FOR THE GOOD AND PURE FEMALES". (S: 24 A: 26)
Indeed, Allah the Highest punishes those He is angry with by giving them bad company, Allah the Highest said: "AND WHO TURNS AWAY FROM REMEMBERING THE MOST MERCIFUL, WE WILL CAUSE HIM TO HAVE A DEVIL FOR CLOSE COMPANION". (S: 43 A: 36)
Our company is dictated by our own behavior and inclinations, yet it affects us as well, either good or bad. Therefore every Muslim should be careful and choosy about the company he keeps. Allah's messenger, prayer and peace upon him, said: "A man follows the religion and way of life of his close companion. Let everyone see whom is he taken for close companions". (M: Zohd; 45)
One of closest companions we might have is our spouse. Allah's messenger, prayer and peace upon him, advised us to look for the good believing righteous women; he said: "A woman is married for her wealth, beauty, breeding and faith, win by marrying the one with good faith and you will be fortunate".
It is not uncommon for the person, even a righteous person taking wicked people for close companions to:-
1- To be tempted by them into doing what they do.
2- To become one of those who suffer wickedness, or their victims, and his family may suffer to. Having close friendship with an adulterer, one might put his own family at risk from him.
3- When a person is often seen in the company of people known for doing wrong, it will be assumed that he does the same as them.
4- Even if not committing a sin, one might do this or take part in it unwittingly. One might buy his companion alcoholic drink or deliver it to him. One might lend another the use of his house to commit adultery etc.
There is no doubt that the kind of company, particularly close company we keep, will affect our life, behavior and our Hereafter.