Hadith #5431

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be cautious when seeking consultation and to avoid including greedy individuals in our decision-making processes. The Arabic word (mashwaratik) "مَشْوَرَتِكَ" refers to consultation, seeking advice, or deliberation. The word (harisan) "حَريصاً" translates to "greedy" or "avaricious," indicating a person who is excessively desirous of wealth or possessions. The Hadith warns us that including such individuals in our consultations can have negative consequences.

To understand the significance of this advice, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Imran (3:159), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to consult with his companions in matters of importance:

So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

This verse emphasizes the importance of consultation and seeking advice from others. However, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) adds an important caveat - we should be cautious and avoid including greedy individuals in our consultations. Greed can cloud one's judgment and lead to unethical decision-making. Such individuals may prioritize their own personal gain over the well-being of the community or the righteousness of the decision.

To further understand the consequences of including a greedy person in our consultations, we can refer to Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:62), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against following the desires of those who are greedy:

And you see many of them hastening into sin and aggression and the devouring of [what is] unlawful. How wretched is what they have been doing.

When we include a greedy person in our consultations, their influence can lead us towards sinful and unethical actions. They may manipulate the decision-making process to benefit themselves, even if it means engaging in unlawful activities. Their greed can distort the true purpose of consultation, which is to seek guidance and make decisions that align with the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, advises us to be cautious and discerning when seeking consultation. By excluding greedy individuals, we can ensure that our decisions are based on righteousness and the well-being of the community. This Hadith serves as a reminder to prioritize ethical conduct and to seek guidance from those who possess knowledge, integrity, and a sincere concern for the greater good.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) cautions us against including greedy individuals in our consultations. Greed can lead to unethical decision-making and prioritize personal gain over the well-being of the community. By seeking advice from those who possess knowledge, integrity, and a sincere concern for the greater good, we can ensure that our decisions are guided by righteousness and aligned with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to make sound decisions and protect us from the influence of greed.