Consult the Righteous: Wisdom from Imam al-Baqir (AS)

Introduction

One of the significant occasions in the coming week is the martyrdom of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS), a towering figure of wisdom and piety. In remembrance of his invaluable guidance, let us reflect upon one of his profound sayings:

قالَ الإمام الباقر (ع): اِسْتَشِرْ فِي أَمْرِكَ اَلَّذِينَ يَخْشَوْنَ اَللَّهَ.

Imam al-Baqir (AS) said: “Consult in your affairs those who fear Allah.”

Imam al-Baqir (AS) reminds us that when seeking advice and guidance, we should turn to those who possess genuine reverence for Allah SWT. This saying underlines the importance of choosing our counsellors wisely and the necessity of aligning our decisions with divine principles. The following explores the moral and educational messages derived from this noble hadith for different segments of society.

Educational Messages of the Hadith for Teenagers and Young People

Message 1: Seek Advice Only from Pious Individuals

Choosing advisors who are pious and sincere ensures that their guidance will be rooted in honesty, justice, and moral integrity. Such people offer advice based on values, not personal gain. Their virtuousness naturally influences their perspectives, promoting fairness and sincerity. They can help you avoid mistakes and inspire you to make decisions that align with faith and good character.

Practical Challenge: Identify one virtuous person you trust and seek their advice on an important decision this week.

Message 2: Be Mindful of Unconscious Consultation

Often, we consult others without realising it, simply by sharing our thoughts and concerns. This unconscious consultation means we are influenced by their perspectives and values. Confiding in the wrong people can lead us astray without even noticing it. Therefore, we must be mindful of whom we engage with, as their influence can shape our choices and direction.

Practical Challenge: Reflect on your recent conversations. Were they with individuals known for sincerity and integrity? If not, consider adjusting your circle.

Message 3: Be the Kind of Person You Want to Seek Advice From

If you desire to be surrounded by virtuous and pious individuals, you must strive to become one yourself. People are drawn to those who reflect their own values, and pious individuals often choose to associate with others who share their faith and integrity. By working on your own character and striving for sincerity and righteousness, you naturally attract similar company. This not only benefits your personal growth but also ensures that you remain part of a positive and supportive circle.

Practical Challenge: Reflect on one personal habit or trait you would like to improve to become a better and more sincere person. Make a plan to work on it this week.

Educational Messages of the Hadith for Parents

Message 4: Choose Virtuous Companions for Your Children

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s environment. Encouraging relationships with virtuous families and individuals can significantly impact a child’s moral development. Regular exposure to pious people helps inculcate respect for faith and ethical conduct. Such associations create an atmosphere where Islamic values are upheld and encouraged.

Practical Challenge: Organise a family visit or gathering with another family known for their integrity and faith to foster healthy friendships for your children.

Message 5: Model Consultation with the Righteous

Children learn not only from their peers but also by observing their parents. When parents model the behaviour of seeking advice from upright and virtuous individuals, children internalise the importance of such consultation. This practice teaches humility, responsibility, and the value of wisdom grounded in faith. It also creates an environment where moral integrity is prioritised.

Practical Challenge: Share a story with your children about a time when you sought advice from a God-fearing person and how it impacted your life.

Message 6: Teach Critical Thinking and Long-Term Perspective

For children to choose righteous and pious individuals as their friends and advisors, they need to develop critical thinking and the ability to consider long-term consequences. Parents must help them look beyond immediate appearances or peer pressure to understand the deeper character of those around them. By encouraging thoughtful decision-making and considering how friendships shape one’s future, parents prepare their children to make choices that align with faith and wisdom.

Practical Challenge: Sit with your child this week and discuss a long-term goal they have. Talk about how their friends and advisors might influence their path toward that goal.

Educational Messages of the Hadith for Imams and Religious Leaders

Message 7: Warn Against Misguided Advice

Religious leaders should caution their audiences against the risks of seeking advice from individuals lacking faith and integrity. Such individuals may offer guidance rooted in personal desires or flawed perspectives, leading others into harm. Sharing real-life stories of people who faced consequences due to misguided advice can resonate deeply with listeners.

Practical Challenge: In your next sermon, narrate a story that highlights the harm caused by consulting someone lacking integrity.

Message 8: Foster Righteous Mentorship

Community leaders should actively promote a culture where people naturally turn to pious and sincere individuals for advice. This can be achieved by organising mentorship programmes or study circles that connect the youth with upright, knowledgeable figures. Such efforts ensure that moral and spiritual guidance is always available within the community.

Practical Challenge: Launch a mentorship initiative in your mosque or community centre that pairs young people with trusted, pious mentors.