To Influence or Be Influenced?

Salaam Minara Family,

This week, we’ve been reflecting on the concept of peer pressure.

When you hear the words peer pressure, it usually carries a negative connotation, right? 📉

We immediately think of being influenced to make wrong choices and face the consequences. But what if we flipped that concept on its head?

Recently, we came across the term positive peer pressure, and it really got us thinking... 💭

Let’s dive into how surrounding ourselves with the right influences can lead to the best of outcomes—both in this life and the next, insha'Allah.

In a world that constantly tries to distract us from our ultimate goal of attaining Jannah, surrounding ourselves with peers who push us to do good deeds is an incredibly profound blessing from Allah.

Sometimes, we need that extra push—or positive pressure—to help us remember the temporary nature of this world and refocus on our true purpose: to prepare for the everlasting Hereafter.

Your friends influence you more than you may realize. So ask yourself:

Who have you taken as your khalil in this life?

Are your friends positively pushing you toward consistent good deeds? Or are they influencing you to stray from the path and engage in harmful or even haram actions?

So, what does it mean to have a good friend in this life? Here are a few key traits to look for in a good khalil (close friend):

- 🌟 Motivates You to Do More Good: A good friend performs more good deeds, which naturally encourages you to strive for better when you're around them.

- ⚖️ Cares About Consequences: They are mindful of the consequences of any wrongdoings and avoid places or activities that could lead to sinful behavior.

- 🗣️ Preserves Their Tongue: They steer clear of foul language, gossip, and swearing, instead using their words to uplift and remind you of Allah.

- 🕋 Reminds You of Allah: A true friend continuously brings your focus back to your Creator, offering reminders of Allah in both subtle and significant ways.

As many of you are stepping into new phases of life—be it new workplaces, university, or even seeking new friendships—our advice is to seek out companions who remind you of Allah and care about your akhirah just as much as they do their own.

It can make all the difference in staying committed to your faith and spiritual growth.

"Close friends, that Day, will be enemies to each other, except for the righteous." 

Surah Az-Zukhruf (43:67)

This verse highlights that on the Day of Judgment, even the closest of friends will turn against each other—except for those who were righteous. Let this serve as a reminder of the lasting value in friendships that are rooted in faith and obedience to Allah.

Nurturing Your Friendships with Salah 

As you work on building these righteous friendships, remember that salah can be the foundation of these connections. Encourage each other to pray on time and even pray together when possible.

It's a beautiful way to strengthen your bond while simultaneously growing closer to Allah. Keep in mind, a friend who encourages you to pray is a friend who cares deeply about your success in this life and the next.

As we begin a new academic year or dive into new opportunities, let’s be intentional about who we surround ourselves with.

Find friends who bring you closer to Allah and who inspire you to be the best version of yourself.

The rewards of positive peer pressure are endless, and these relationships may just be the key to your success—both here and in the akhirah.

Until next week, may Allah bless your friendships and fill your life with righteous companions! 🌿

Warm regards,

The Minara Team