Hadith #8515

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to engage in critical thinking and seek consultation before making decisions, and to reflect deeply before taking any action. Let us delve into the profound wisdom contained within this hadith, and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The first part of the hadith states,

Think before you decide.

The word "tafakkur" is used here, which means to ponder, reflect, and contemplate deeply. This emphasizes the importance of engaging our intellect and using reason to make informed decisions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to reflect upon His signs in the Quran, as He says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 191:

Those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides, and reflect upon the creation of the heavens and the earth, saying, 'Our Lord, You did not create this aimlessly; exalted are You [above such a thing]; then protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hashr, verse 21, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

If We had sent down this Quran upon a mountain, you would have seen it humbled and coming apart from fear of Allah. And these examples We present to the people that perhaps they will give thought.

These verses highlight the importance of deep contemplation and reflection upon the signs of Allah in order to make sound decisions. By pondering over the consequences and implications of our choices, we can avoid hasty and ill-informed decisions that may lead to regret and harm.

The second part of the hadith advises us to

consult before you proceed.

The word "shawir" is used here, which means to seek advice and counsel from others. This emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from those who are knowledgeable and experienced in the matter at hand. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages consultation in Surah Al-Imran, verse 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].

Consultation allows us to benefit from the wisdom and perspectives of others, enabling us to make more informed decisions. It also fosters unity and cooperation within the community. By seeking advice from those who are knowledgeable and sincere, we can avoid the pitfalls of arrogance and self-centeredness, and make decisions that are in the best interest of all.

The third part of the hadith advises us to

ponder before you rush forward.

The word "tadabbur" is used here, which means to deeply reflect and contemplate upon the consequences and implications of our actions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of reflection and contemplation in the Quran. In Surah Al-Hashr, verse 18, Allah says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

By taking the time to ponder and reflect upon our actions, we can avoid impulsive and reckless behavior that may lead to negative outcomes. It allows us to align our actions with our values and principles, and make choices that are in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to engage in critical thinking, seek consultation, and reflect deeply before making decisions and taking action. By following these principles, we can navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and prudence, and strive towards making choices that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to think, consult, and ponder in all aspects of our lives.