Hadith #5402

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

شاوِرْ ذَوِي العُقُولِ، تَأْمَنِ الزَّلَلَ والنَّدَمَ۔

This can be translated as,

Consult the intelligent ones and you will be safe from error and regret.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (shaawir) "شاوِرْ" in the Hadith means to consult or seek advice. It emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from individuals who possess intellect and wisdom. This highlights the significance of making informed decisions by seeking the counsel of those who are knowledgeable and possess sound judgment.

The term (dhu al-'uqool) "ذَوِي العُقُولِ" refers to the people of intellect or those who possess wisdom. These are individuals who have the ability to analyze situations, consider various perspectives, and provide insightful advice. They are the ones who have honed their intellect and have a deep understanding of matters.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to consult these intelligent individuals in order to safeguard ourselves from error and regret. By seeking their guidance, we can avoid making hasty or ill-informed decisions that may lead to negative consequences. Consulting the wise helps us gain a broader perspective, consider different angles, and make well-thought-out choices.

This guidance from Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge, wisdom, and guidance in various verses.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 7:28)

And when they commit an immorality, they say, 'We found our fathers doing it, and Allah has ordered us to do it.' Say, 'Indeed, Allah does not order immorality. Do you say about Allah that which you do not know?'

This verse highlights the importance of not blindly following the practices of our forefathers without understanding their rationale. It encourages us to seek knowledge and understanding before making decisions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Nahl, Allah says, (Quran 50:16)

And We have certainly created man and We know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein.

This verse reminds us that Allah is aware of our innermost thoughts and desires. It encourages us to seek His guidance and the counsel of those who possess wisdom and intellect.

By consulting the intelligent ones, we can benefit from their knowledge and experience. They can provide us with insights and perspectives that we may not have considered on our own. This consultation process helps us make informed decisions, avoiding potential pitfalls and regrets.

For example, let's say someone is facing a difficult career choice. They consult a mentor who has extensive experience in the field and possesses wisdom. The mentor may provide valuable insights, highlighting the potential challenges and opportunities associated with each option. This consultation can help the individual make a well-informed decision, minimizing the chances of regretting their choice later on.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to consult the intelligent ones in order to avoid error and regret. By seeking the counsel of those who possess wisdom and intellect, we can make informed decisions and navigate through life's challenges with greater clarity. This guidance aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of seeking knowledge, understanding, and guidance. As Muslims, let us heed this advice and seek the counsel of the wise in our personal and professional lives, ensuring that we make choices that align with our values and lead to success in this world and the Hereafter.