Hadith #5414

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who consults the people of intellect is enlightened by the lights of the intellects.

This beautiful saying emphasizes the importance of seeking advice and guidance from those who possess wisdom and intellect. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The Arabic word (shaawara) "شاوَرَ" in this Hadith means to consult or seek advice. It implies actively seeking the counsel of individuals who possess intellect and wisdom. The term (dhu al-'uqool) "ذَوِي العُقُولِ" refers to those who possess intellects or sound reasoning. These are individuals who have acquired knowledge and understanding through their experiences and education.

The Hadith highlights the importance of seeking advice from such individuals. It suggests that by consulting the people of intellect, one can benefit from their wisdom and insight. This act of seeking advice not only helps in making informed decisions but also leads to enlightenment and guidance.

The Quran supports the concept of seeking counsel and guidance from those who possess knowledge and wisdom. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:159)

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 encourages Muslims to seek consultation in their affairs, emphasizing the importance of taking advice from others.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nahl, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 34:6)

And those who have been given knowledge see that what is revealed to you from your Lord is the truth, and it guides to the path of the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy.

This verse highlights the significance of seeking knowledge and guidance from those who possess it, as they are able to recognize the truth and guide others towards it.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith encourages Muslims to actively seek the advice and guidance of individuals who possess intellect and wisdom. By doing so, one can benefit from their knowledge and experience, leading to enlightenment and making informed decisions.

Consulting the people of intellect not only helps in personal matters but also extends to matters of the community and society. For example, when faced with complex social issues or challenges, seeking advice from experts in the relevant fields can lead to effective solutions and positive outcomes. This approach promotes collective decision-making and harnesses the collective wisdom of the community.

Moreover, seeking advice from the people of intellect fosters a culture of learning and growth. It encourages individuals to acknowledge their limitations and recognize the value of diverse perspectives. By consulting those who possess knowledge and wisdom, one can expand their own understanding and make more informed choices.

On the other hand, neglecting to seek advice from the people of intellect can lead to ignorance, narrow-mindedness, and flawed decision-making. The Quran warns against arrogance and self-reliance, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance from those who possess knowledge and wisdom.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of the significance of seeking advice and guidance from the people of intellect. By actively consulting those who possess wisdom and knowledge, one can benefit from their insights and experiences, leading to enlightenment and making informed decisions. This practice aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which encourage seeking counsel and guidance from those who possess knowledge. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek advice from the people of intellect and guide us towards making righteous choices.