and consult them in the matter. Then, when you have decided, put your trust in Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who put their trust in Him.”

It has been reported that Abū Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “No one consulted his companions more than the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.”

It has been said that Allah commanded His Prophet to consult them to foster harmony among his Companions, to provide an example for those who came after him, and to elicit their views on matters concerning which no revelation had come down, such as warfare, particular circumstances, and other matters. Others therefore have all the more reason to consult than he, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.

Allah praised the believers for this in His words:

“But what is with Allah is better and more lasting for those who believe and put their trust in their Lord,”

“and who avoid major sins and indecencies, and when they are angry, forgive,”

“and who respond to their Lord, establish prayer, conduct their affairs through mutual consultation, and spend out of what We have provided for them.”

When the ruler consults them, if any of them makes clear to him what must be followed from the Book of Allah, the Sunnah of His Messenger, or the consensus of the Muslims, he must follow it. No one is to be obeyed in contravention of that, however eminent he may be in religious or worldly affairs. Allah Most High says:

“O you who believe, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.”

If, however, it is a matter over which the Muslims disagree, he should elicit from each of them his view and the reasoning behind it, then act upon whichever view most closely accords with the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, as He Most High says:

“If you disagree over anything, refer it