Hadith #5419

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

ما ضَلَّ مَنِ اسْتَشارَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who seeks advice does not go astray.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (dalla) "ضَلَّ" in Arabic refers to going astray, deviating from the right path, or losing one's way. Seeking advice, on the other hand, is expressed by the word (istashara) "استَشارَ", which means to consult, to seek guidance, or to ask for advice. This Hadith emphasizes the importance of seeking advice and guidance in making decisions and choices in our lives.

The Quranic teachings also emphasize the significance of seeking guidance and counsel. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (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 importance of consultation in decision-making. Even the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was advised to consult his companions and seek their opinions before making important decisions. This demonstrates the significance of seeking advice from others, as it helps us gain different perspectives and make more informed choices.

Moreover, in Surah Ash-Shura (42:38), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And those who have responded to their lord and established prayer and whose affair is [determined by] consultation among themselves, and from what We have provided them, they spend.

This verse emphasizes the importance of consultation among believers and highlights that those who respond to their Lord and establish prayer are also those who engage in consultation. Seeking advice and guidance from others is a means of strengthening our faith and seeking the blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that seeking advice is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of wisdom and humility. It acknowledges that no one person possesses all knowledge and understanding, and that seeking the counsel of others can help us make better decisions.

When we seek advice, we open ourselves up to different perspectives and insights. This can prevent us from making hasty or ill-informed choices that may lead us astray. By seeking advice, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's guidance and our willingness to consider the opinions and experiences of others.

Furthermore, seeking advice fosters a sense of unity and community among Muslims. It encourages us to engage in open and respectful dialogue, allowing us to learn from one another and grow together. It reminds us that we are not alone in our journey and that we can benefit from the wisdom and knowledge of those around us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of seeking advice and guidance in our lives. It reminds us that seeking counsel is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of wisdom and humility. By seeking advice, we open ourselves up to different perspectives and insights, preventing us from going astray and making better decisions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to seek advice and counsel in all aspects of our lives and grant us the wisdom to make choices that are pleasing to Him.