The words ‘isolation’ and
‘seclusion’ have a special meaning in our religion - to stay
away from evil and its perpetrators, and to keep those who
are foolish at a distance. As a consequence, you will have an
opportunity to reflect, to think and to graze in the meadows
of enlightenment.
When you isolate yourself from things that divert you from
Allah’s obedience, you are giving yourself a dose of
medicine, one that doctors of the heart have found to be a
most potent cure. By secluding yourself from evil and
idleness, your brain is stimulated into action. The results
are increases in faith, repentance, and remembrance of Allah.
However, some gatherings are not only recommended, but are
necessary: the congregational prayer, circles of learning,
and all gatherings wherein good is spread. As for gatherings
wherein frivolity and shallowness prevail, be wary of them.
Take flight from such gatherings, weep over your wrongdoing,
hold your tongue, and be content with the boundaries of your
home. By mixing with others based on foolish motives, you
endanger the stability and soundness of your mind. This is
because those you are mixing with are experts at wasting
time, masters of spreading lies, and are accomplished at
spreading both trouble and mischief.
"Had they marched out with you, they would have added to
you nothing except disorder, and they would have hurried
about you in your midst [spreading corruption] and sowing
sedition among you..."
[Surah At-Taubah - Ayah 47.]
My sole wish for you is that you fortify yourself to your
purpose and isolate yourself in your room, except to speak
well or to do well. When you apply this advice, you will find
that your heart has returned to you. So use your time well
and save your life from being wasted. Hold your tongue from
backbiting, free your heart from anxiety, and preserve your
ears from profanity.