Not everyone who smiles at you is your friend. Some people pretend to care but secretly want to harm you. Allah warns us in the Quran to be wise about who we trust and who we let into our inner circle.

In Surah Aal-e-Imran (3:118), Allah says:

“Those who believe – do not be very close friends with outsiders who spare no effort to ruin you and want to see you suffer. Their hatred is apparent in what they say, and what their hearts hide is even worse.”

What Does This Mean?

Allah reminds us that not everyone has good intentions. Some people act friendly but secretly want to hurt us or lead us away from what is right.

• “Close advisors” means people we trust with our personal matters—our close friends, mentors, or influencers.

• Some people pretend to be good but wish us harm. Their words may sound nice, but their actions or hidden thoughts are different.

• Allah has given us clear signs to recognize who is truly good for us and who isn’t.

How Can We Apply This in Our Lives?

• Choose your close friends wisely. Surround yourself with people who bring you closer to Allah, not those who pull you away.

• Pay attention to actions, not just words. If someone repeatedly disrespects or deceives you, they are not a true friend.

• Trust Allah’s guidance. If you feel uneasy about someone’s influence in your life, ask Allah for wisdom and protection.

Why Does This Matter?

The people we trust shape who we become. Good friends guide us toward success, while bad friends lead us into trouble. By being mindful of who we let close to us, we protect our faith, our values, and our hearts. Stay close to those who remind you of Allah and bring out the best in you.