BENEFIT 278: Qualities of the Advisor and the One Receiving Advice

Sheikh Abdulhameed Az-Zu'kari ḥafidhahullāh: As a benefit, the advisor is: (1) required to possess knowledge of the matter he is advising on, (2) to be gentle in his approach, (3) to follow the example of the Messenger of Allāh ﷺ. (4) His goal should be to guide people rather than to seek praise or attract a following. Similarly, the one receiving advice must be open to the truth and not dismissive, for if a person becomes accustomed to dismissing what is said, he will gain nothing from the advice of advisors or the guidance of guides. He should also be honest with himself, earnestly seeking the right path based on its proofs, especially in our time, where innovations have multiplied, diversified, and branched out. If a person does not earnestly seek the truth for his own soul, desiring the Hereafter and renouncing the materialism of this world, he may fall into ruin, thinking he is doing good. The prevalence of those who have fallen away from the path of knowledge or righteous deeds in society stems from a lack of sincere self-advice, as well as from a lack of sincere advice to Allāh, His Book, His Messenger, and His religion. Such a person is indifferent to where he goes, whether to the east or west; his only concern is obtaining a portion of worldly gain, even if it means aligning himself with a Hizb, this person, or that one. He is unconcerned whether he kills or is killed. A person must be sincere with himself and others, and he must be devoted to adhering to Allāh’s religion. This is where success lies.. Reflect on Allāh’s words (interpreted meaning), "He has succeeded who purifies himself." And what does purification entail but practicing knowledge? And is there any action based on knowledge without first acquiring knowledge? Therefore, one must sincerely advise himself to act upon knowledge and purify his soul. [Allāh ﷻ said (interpreted meaning)] "Successful indeed are the believers who are humble in their prayers…". "Be patient, persevere, remain steadfast, and fear Allāh so that you may be successful." One advises themself to have patience in obeying Allāh and following His laws, through which great goodness is achieved. All praise is due to Allāh, the Lord of all worlds. @almanhajussalafi