Hadith #5386

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) emphasizes the importance of seeking advice from those who possess experience and wisdom, while cautioning against associating with individuals who have numerous faults. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (shāwarta) "شاورتَ" in the Hadith refers to seeking consultation or advice. It highlights the significance of seeking guidance from others when making decisions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to consult individuals who possess (dhū at-tajārib) "ذُو التَّجارِبِ", which can be translated as "abundant experience" or

those who have been tested and tried.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of seeking consultation in Surah Al-Imran, verse 159: (3:159)

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 highlights the Prophet Muhammad's (ﷺ) practice of consulting his companions in matters of importance. It demonstrates the significance of seeking advice from others and considering their perspectives before making decisions. By doing so, we can benefit from the wisdom and experiences of others, leading to better outcomes.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then warns against associating with individuals who possess (dhū al-ma'ā'ib) "ذُو المَعائِبِ", which can be translated as "numerous faults" or

those who have many flaws.

This cautionary statement serves as a reminder to Muslims to be mindful of the company they keep and to avoid individuals who have a negative influence on their character and actions.

The Quran also advises Muslims to choose their companions wisely in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 28: (18:28)

And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His countenance. And let not your eyes pass beyond them, desiring adornments of the worldly life, and do not obey one whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance and who follows his desire and whose affair is ever [in] neglect.

This verse encourages Muslims to surround themselves with righteous individuals who remember Allah and seek His pleasure. It warns against associating with those who are heedless of Allah's remembrance and who are driven by their worldly desires. By choosing virtuous companions, we can ensure that our actions and character are positively influenced.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand the importance of seeking advice from experienced individuals and avoiding the company of those with numerous faults. By seeking consultation, we can benefit from the wisdom and insights of others, leading to better decision-making. Similarly, by choosing virtuous companions, we can cultivate a positive environment that nurtures our spiritual growth and shields us from negative influences.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek advice from those with experience and the discernment to choose righteous companions. May He guide us in making decisions that are pleasing to Him and protect us from the negative influences of those with numerous faults. Ameen.