Hadith #5403

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 the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking consultation in our affairs. Let us delve into the words of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (shaawir) "شاوِرْ", which means to consult or seek advice. This verb implies actively seeking the counsel and guidance of others. It highlights the significance of not making decisions in isolation but rather involving others in the decision-making process.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to consult (fi umurik) "في أُمُورِكَ", meaning in our affairs. This encompasses all aspects of our lives, whether personal, social, or professional. It reminds us that seeking advice is not limited to specific areas but should be a constant practice in all matters.

The Hadith further specifies that we should consult (alladhina yakhshawna Allah) "الَّذينَ يَخْشَوْنَ اللّهَ", those who fear Allah. This condition emphasizes the importance of seeking advice from individuals who possess taqwa, a deep consciousness and fear of Allah. These individuals are righteous, pious, and have a strong moral compass. Their advice is rooted in the teachings of Islam and is guided by the principles of righteousness and justice.

The Hadith concludes with the outcome of seeking consultation, stating (tarshud) "تَرْشُدْ", which means to be rightly guided. This highlights the positive consequence of consulting those who fear Allah. By involving such individuals in our decision-making process, we are more likely to make choices that align with the teachings of Islam and lead us towards righteousness and success.

The importance of seeking consultation is emphasized in the Quran as well. In Surah Al-Imran (3:159), Allah says,

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 Prophet Muhammad's (ﷺ) practice of seeking consultation and advises him to consult his companions in matters of importance. It demonstrates the significance of involving others in decision-making and the importance of seeking their advice.

Another verse that supports the concept of consultation is found in Surah Ash-Shura (42:38), where Allah 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 righteous believers who respond to their Lord, establish prayer, and consult with one another. It emphasizes the importance of consultation as a means of making collective decisions and seeking the best course of action.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the aforementioned Quranic verses collectively emphasize the significance of seeking consultation in our affairs. By involving those who fear Allah in our decision-making process, we benefit from their wisdom, knowledge, and piety. This practice ensures that our choices are guided by the principles of Islam and leads us towards righteousness and success.

As Muslims, we should strive to implement this advice in our lives and actively seek the counsel of those who fear Allah. By doing so, we strengthen our connection with Allah and His guidance, and we increase the likelihood of making decisions that are pleasing to Him. May Allah grant us the wisdom and humility to seek consultation and be guided by those who fear Him.