Hadith #5396

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Ignorance of the adviser is [a cause of] destruction of the consulter.

This profound statement highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom before seeking advice or guidance. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (jahlu) "جَهْلُ" in Arabic refers to ignorance or lack of knowledge. It signifies a state of being uninformed or unaware. The word (mushīri) "مُشِيرِ" refers to the adviser or the one who provides counsel. And the word (halāku) "هَلاكُ" means destruction or ruin. Finally, the word (mustashīri) "مُسْتَشِيرِ" refers to the consulter or the one seeking advice.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Zumar, verse 9, Allah says,

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who are ignorant. It implies that seeking knowledge is a means of attaining guidance and avoiding destruction.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 269, Allah says,

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of wisdom and its positive impact on an individual's life. It implies that seeking advice from someone who possesses wisdom and knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions and avoiding potential harm.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against seeking advice from someone who is ignorant or lacks knowledge. This is because an adviser who is ignorant may provide incorrect or misguided counsel, leading the consulter towards destruction. It highlights the importance of seeking guidance from individuals who possess knowledge and wisdom, as they are more likely to provide sound advice based on Islamic teachings and principles.

For example, if a person is seeking financial advice, it is essential to consult someone who is knowledgeable in matters of finance and adheres to Islamic principles. Seeking advice from an individual who lacks knowledge in this area may lead to financial losses or engaging in prohibited transactions. Similarly, in matters of religion, seeking guidance from scholars who possess deep understanding of the Quran and Sunnah is crucial to avoid falling into misguidance or innovation.

The consequences of seeking advice from an ignorant adviser can be detrimental. It can lead to making poor decisions, engaging in sinful acts, or even straying from the path of righteousness. Therefore, it is incumbent upon Muslims to seek knowledge and wisdom themselves and to seek advice from those who are knowledgeable and pious.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom before seeking advice. It warns against seeking guidance from individuals who are ignorant, as their counsel may lead to destruction. Muslims should strive to acquire knowledge themselves and seek advice from those who possess knowledge and adhere to Islamic teachings. By doing so, they can make informed decisions, avoid potential harm, and remain steadfast on the path of righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge and guidance from those who are truly knowledgeable.