Hadith #5426

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Never consult with the ignorant in your affairs.

This impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking advice and guidance from knowledgeable individuals when making decisions.

The word (tushāwiran) "تُشاوِرَنَّ" in the Hadith means to consult or seek advice. It implies the act of seeking counsel from others in order to make informed decisions. Consulting with others is a recommended practice in Islam, as it allows for diverse perspectives and helps in making wise choices.

However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises against seeking advice from the (jahil) "جَاهِل", which refers to the ignorant or those lacking knowledge. The term "جَاهِل" encompasses not only those who are illiterate or uneducated but also those who lack deep understanding and insight into matters.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and guidance from those who possess it. 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 the knowledgeable and the ignorant and emphasizes the value of seeking knowledge from those who are qualified.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mujadila, verse 11, Allah states,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames.

This verse encourages Muslims to respect and value one another, recognizing that someone may possess knowledge and wisdom that surpasses their own.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that seeking advice from those lacking knowledge can lead to misguided decisions and detrimental consequences. When making important choices, it is crucial to consult with individuals who possess deep understanding and expertise in the relevant field. Their insights and wisdom can help us make informed decisions that align with the teachings of Islam and benefit our lives in this world and the hereafter.

For example, if one is seeking advice on matters of religious jurisprudence, it is essential to consult with qualified scholars who have studied Islamic law extensively. Their knowledge and understanding of the Quran and Sunnah enable them to provide accurate guidance and prevent individuals from falling into error or misunderstanding.

Similarly, in matters of personal or professional life, seeking advice from knowledgeable and experienced individuals can help us navigate challenges and make sound choices. Whether it is seeking guidance from mentors, experts, or elders, their wisdom and insights can provide valuable perspectives that we may not have considered on our own.

On the other hand, seeking advice from the ignorant can lead to confusion, misinformation, and misguided decisions. The ignorant may lack the necessary knowledge and understanding to provide accurate guidance. Their opinions may be based on personal biases, limited perspectives, or incomplete information, which can lead to detrimental outcomes.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to seek advice and guidance from knowledgeable individuals when making decisions. By doing so, we can ensure that our choices are based on sound knowledge and understanding, aligning with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge from the qualified and protect us from the pitfalls of ignorance.