In the name of God the compassionate, ever merciful
People in America have a saying that indicates “Two heads are better than one”. That means that two people can solve a problem much better than only one person can, if they consult on it. In an extended form, if there are more than two people consulting on a problem, it would be even better. So this is a common sense idea that has been accepted by most people of the world.
As for a believer, consultation is considered important rather than just a good suggestion …
Surat Ash-Shuraa, Verses 38-40:
“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.
And those who, when tyranny strikes them, they defend themselves,
And the retribution for an evil act is an evil one like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation
– his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers.”
Here are a few reasons why is it better to consult:
One person, no matter how wise or knowledgeable, usually has a certain way of looking at things. They can miss something that another person will see.
One has limited reach, material or physical ability, knowledge or experience whereas two or more can do better.
One can be bound by certain feelings or emotions towards an issue that inhibits its resolve and when they are two or more, then others may not feel the same way and the problem can resolve better.
One may not even know that there is a problem and only with regular consultation with others would bring the problem into light. On a further note on this, if one has a good consultant, they should even ask their opinion about one’s self too. This is because consultants may be hesitant to bring out a critical opinion about the person asking for consultation. When the consultant has a critical opinion, then the one who asked them should thank them and reflect and think deeply on their idea or suggestion. But never argue with those selected to consult even if one disagrees with their opinion. Why, because if one respects the opinion of the consultant, then most probably they are correct!
Among the best of consultants are believers who are fully trustworthy, knowledgeable, experienced and wise. These qualities are often found in one’s parents for younger believers who seek a good consultant. Sometimes even just hearing the ideas of a good friend with above qualities can be a sort of worthy consultation for those who are blessed with having good friends.
Imam Ali (AS):
“There is no greater wealth than wisdom, no greater poverty than ignorance; no greater heritage than culture and no greater support than consultation.”
Thank you for reading this.
