Hakeemul Ummah, Hadhrat Moulana Ashraf AH Thanwi (RA) emphasized that not all of the Sahaba were Ulamaa (learned scholars of religion) but they achieved whatever they had achieved merely through His (SAW's) company. He further stressed that the righteous friends of Allah have always held firm onto ' Suhbat' (adopting the company of the Pious). They have never given as much attention to acquiring knowledge as they have to Suhbat and Companionship.

"O those who believe, fear Allah and seek unto Him a medium and strive in his path so that you maybe successful."

In this verse Allah instructs us to search for means through which we can reach Him. The commentary of this verse, as according to many of the Sahaba and Tabieen, suggests that the word' Waseelah' in this verse (translated as a medium or means) literally refers to every source which aids one in attaining the ultimate pleasure of Allah, and gaining nearness to Him. The saintly and devout servants of Allah are a great means of guidance for us. Accompanying them can open many channels directly leading to the pleasure of Allah. Therefore, it is imperative to befriend them, comply with their consultations and remain in their company. Only then we will be able to benefit from them and taste the fruits which blossom from deep within them. The blessings of Allah constantly descend upon His friends and they are perpetually caressed with his favours. If we accompany them it is highly possible that we may be granted a portion of these bounties.

We live in an era wherein the world has been stripped of any shame or modesty. The Western evils encapsulating our environment have gradually crept into those parts of the world where Muslims are densely populated, such as the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. Not only our actions, but our thinking and frame of mind have also transformed. The detestable traits and foul habits of the non-Muslims have become a part of us, darkening our souls, preventing the light of Imaan (faith) from penetrating the heart. Thus, we have fallen short of the remembrance of Our creator and spiritually we are dying. The Prophet of Allah (SAW) explained:

"An example of that person who remembers his Lord and one that does not, is like that of the living and the dead" (Bukhari, Muslim)

The Friends of Allah are sometimes referred to as' Ahle-dil' (people of the heart) because they are like spiritual doctors who treat the soul. These very people can diagnose ailments through insight gifted to them by Allah. They have the remedies to cure our spiritual illnesses and aid us in the struggle to change our lives. They can help us to revive the remembrance of Allah in our hearts which have become dormant due to our disobedience. It is essential to maintain a strong connection with such people as history has shown repeatedly that those who have failed to affiliate with them have deviated in someway or another. May Allah bless us with the company of such saints and may He grant us the capacity and the strength to benefit from them. (Ameen)