Verily, the example of the righteous companion and the evil companion is like that of the carrier of the musk and the blower of the bellows

Explanation

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) provided an example for two types of people: First type: The righteous companion and friend who guides others to Allah and to what pleases Him and helps others obey Him. His example is like that of the musk seller who will either give you some thereof, or you will buy from him, or you will smell and get from him a pleasant fragrance. Second type: The evil companion and friend who turns others away from the path of Allah and helps them commit sins, the one whom you see doing evil deeds and you receive criticism for being in his company. His example is like that of the blacksmith who blows his fire and either burns your clothes with the flying sparks of fire or you get a nasty smell from being close to him.

Lessons

• Exemplification is permissible to make it easier for the listener to grasp the meaning.
• Encouraging and urging people to accompany the righteous and the doers of good and avoid the doers of evil and those with bad morals.