Today’s life is full of upheavals and both small and large events. Few people are experts in every area of life and have comprehensive knowledge. In these circumstances, one of the emphatic recommendations of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) to their followers is to benefit from the valuable gem of consultation, which, like gold, never loses its value. Consulting with wise, experienced, well-meaning, and pious individuals and being receptive to their advice brings goodness, blessings, and is one of the cornerstones of success in life. Imam Sadiq [1](peace be upon him) states in this regard: “There is no more reliable and trustworthy support than consulting.”[2][3]
In the Qur’an, when describing the qualities of believers, Allah says: “And they consult one another in their affairs.”[4]
Unfortunately, many people, due to neglecting consultation and failing to seek advice, fall into complicated problems, harms, and dilemmas that perhaps would never have occurred if they had simply sought advice from the start. Imam Sadiq (peace be upon him) also says in another narration: “Whoever consults will not be destroyed.”[5]
The value of consultation is so great that Imam Sadiq (peace be upon him), quoting the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), said: “Asking the advice of a wise and well-meaning person brings blessings, guidance, and success from Allah.”[6]
Footnotes:
[1] Misbah al-Shari’ah, p. 152 – Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 72, p. 103
[2] Al-Kafi, vol. 2, p. 8
[3] This issue is not in contradiction with tawakkul (reliance) on Allah, rather a person should, after consultation and making necessary preparations, ultimately place their trust in Allah.
[4] The Holy Qur’an, Surah Ash-Shura, Ayah 38
[5] Al-Mahasin, p. 601, Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 72, p. 101
[6] Al-Mahasin, p. 602, Wasail al-Shia, vol. 12, p. 42