Keeping company with pious men

Hadrat Abu Raza (Radi Allaahu Ta’ala Anhu) narrated:

The Messenger of ALLAH said, “Should I not tell you some thing which is the pivot of faith and through which you can achieve goodness in this world and in the Hereafter.

Firstly, hold fast the company of Ahl-e-Zikar (devout men). Secondly when you are alone, keep your tongue busy in remembering ALLAH, as far as possible. Thirdly, love for the sake of ALLAH only and (similarly) hate for the sake of ALLAH alone.” [Baihaqui]

Note: It is confirmed by experience that good company is the best means of realizing the gist of religion, relishing its taste and appreciating its strength. [Hayat-ul-Muslimin]