Hadith #5407

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The essence [and source] of guidance is in consultation.

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the importance of seeking counsel and advice in matters of importance. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The Arabic phrase (fi al-istishara) "فِي الاِسْتِشارَةِ" translates to "in consultation." The word (istishara) "اِسْتِشارَةِ" is derived from the root word (shuraka) "شُرَاكَة", which means partnership or sharing. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to seeking advice and sharing opinions with others before making a decision. This highlights the significance of collective decision-making and the wisdom that can be gained from consulting others.

The Hadith emphasizes that the essence and source of guidance lie in consultation. This means that seeking advice and considering the opinions of others is a means to attain guidance and make informed decisions. The Quran supports this concept of consultation in several verses.

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 consulting and seeking the opinions of others. Even the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was instructed to consult his companions before making decisions. This demonstrates the significance of collective decision-making and the wisdom that can be gained through consultation.

Another verse that supports the concept of consultation is found in Surah Ash-Shura (42:38), where 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 highlights the characteristics of the believers who respond to their Lord and establish prayer. It also emphasizes the importance of consultation in their affairs. By consulting with one another, they are able to make decisions that are in line with the teachings of Islam and beneficial for the community.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to seek guidance through consultation. It reminds us that we should not rely solely on our own opinions and perspectives, but rather consider the insights and advice of others. By doing so, we can make more informed decisions that are aligned with the teachings of Islam and beneficial for ourselves and the community.

Consultation fosters unity, strengthens relationships, and promotes a sense of collective responsibility. It allows for the sharing of knowledge, experiences, and perspectives, leading to better decision-making and outcomes. Moreover, consultation helps to prevent arrogance and self-centeredness, as it encourages humility and the recognition of the value of others' opinions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified the practice of consultation throughout his life. He sought the advice of his companions and encouraged them to actively participate in decision-making processes. His leadership was characterized by inclusivity and the recognition of the importance of diverse perspectives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the essence and source of guidance lie in consultation. By seeking advice and considering the opinions of others, we can make more informed decisions that are in line with the teachings of Islam. The Quranic verses mentioned support the importance of consultation in matters of importance. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to seek guidance through consultation and grant us the wisdom to make decisions that are pleasing to Him.