Have you ever made an important decision without considering how it would affect the people around you?
Perhaps a family member accepted a job in another location without discussing the arrangements with their spouse. Maybe a parent made a major decision concerning the children without listening to their concerns.
Decisions made without communication can create misunderstandings and unnecessary tension.
Islam teaches the importance of consultation, particularly when decisions affect other people.
CONSULTATION IS A QUALITY OF BELIEVERS
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.”**
*Qur’an 42:38 — translation of the meaning.*
This verse identifies consultation as one of the qualities of believers.
It teaches us that important matters should not always be handled through individual preference, pride or the desire to control others.
Consultation allows people to share their views, consider different possibilities and work towards better decisions.
LISTENING DOES NOT MAKE YOU WEAK
Some people believe that being the head of a family means making every decision without listening to anyone.
Others think that asking for advice makes them appear incapable.
But seeking opinions does not remove your responsibility. It can help you make more informed decisions.
A husband and wife, for example, should communicate about decisions that affect their household. Parents should also consider the needs and circumstances of their children when appropriate.
Listening does not mean every suggestion must be accepted. It means giving people’s concerns proper consideration.
CONSULTATION SHOULD BE BASED ON RESPECT
When discussing family matters:
– Allow everyone involved to express their concerns.
– Avoid shouting or insulting people who disagree.
– Consider the possible consequences of each decision.
– Seek advice from knowledgeable and trustworthy people when necessary.
– Do not use consultation as a way to manipulate others into accepting what you have already decided.
The purpose is to reach a wise and responsible decision, not simply to win an argument.
CONSULTATION HAS ITS LIMITS
Not every matter is open to personal preference. Consultation must remain within the boundaries of Islamic teachings.
For example, no family decision should be used to justify something Allah has forbidden or deny another person’s established rights.
When a matter involves an Islamic ruling, seek guidance from reliable scholars.
HEART CHECK
A healthy family is not one in which only one person speaks and everyone else remains silent.
It is one in which people communicate respectfully, consider one another’s needs and seek what is best within the guidance of Islam.
Before making a decision that affects others, ask yourself whether you have given them a fair opportunity to be heard.
REFLECTION: Do you listen to the opinions of people affected by your decisions, or do you expect them to accept everything you decide?
DU’A: O Allah, grant our families wisdom, patience and understanding. Help us make good decisions, listen to one another respectfully and remain within Your guidance. Ameen.
3SIXTYISLAM
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