Imam Chebli: Follow the Law, but Embrace the Guidance of Surah Shura

Imam Chebli: Follow the law, but embrace the guidance of Surah Shura.

Truth with Sadid
الحقيقة مع سديد

The Message of Surah Shura in Our Time
A Conversation with Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli (He Reached the US Congress and Offered His Dua)

 

Hosted by Sadid Quraishi, Anchor and Writer, Princeton, USA

Sadid Quraishi:
Imam, Assalamu Alaikum. You recently delivered a remarkable khutba on Surah Shura at ISCJ. For my readers, could you explain the meaning of the word Shura and its core principles?

Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli:
Wa Alaikum Assalam, Sadid. Shura means consultation, and it forms the foundation of Islamic governance and community decision-making. The Qur’an in Surah Ash-Shura (42:38) praises those who “conduct their affairs by mutual consultation.”

In practice, it encourages collective decision-making. Leaders should seek advice from experts and the community, rather than acting alone. This ensures fairness, accountability, and decisions that serve the best interests of the people.

But Shura isn’t limited to governments. It applies in daily life too—like when:

• Community leaders consult members before major decisions

• Business owners seek input from employees

• Families discuss important matters together

When practiced sincerely, Shura strengthens unity, responsibility, and cooperation among everyone involved.

Sadid Quraishi:
That’s very insightful. Many of our readers wonder: how can this principle be applied in Muslim societies that face governance challenges?

Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli:
It starts with humility and listening. Leaders should seek advice from experts, scholars, and their communities. They need to create spaces where people can express opinions freely and respectfully. Decisions made through Shura carry blessings and public trust because they reflect the people’s voice and align with justice.

Sadid Quraishi:
Imam, you have a degree in Islamic Theology from the oldest university, Al-Azhar. How does Surah Shura guide us in applying consultation among ourselves, especially with those who resist or hinder the consultation process within our own households?

Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli:
One thing I always emphasize is respecting the law of the land. Shura is about patience, respect, and working together.
If someone resists or creates obstacles, engage them respectfully. Explain the importance of consultation, advise them, and help them understand justice and the greater good. Try to build consensus.
If they still disagree, decisions can be made for the community’s benefit—but always guided by fairness and ethics. The key is handling obstacles with wisdom, not force, so Shura continues to serve everyone justly.

Sadid Quraishi:
You mentioned that Shura isn’t just for governments but also for families and individuals. Can you explain that further?

Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli:
Absolutely. The spirit of Shura belongs in our homes, mosques, and workplaces. Families should consult each other before major decisions, and parents should involve their children to build understanding and unity. In communities, open dialogue prevents conflict and strengthens brotherhood.

Sadid Quraishi:
In your khutba, you mentioned the story of Ali (Karramallahu Wajhah) and Abu Bakr (Karramallahu Wajhah) after the Prophet’s passing. I believe Shura truly began with Hazrat Muhammad (peace be upon him) and continued through Hazrat Ali—a great example of governance, unity, respect, honor, and love. How does that event illustrate the principle of Shura?

Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli:
That moment is one of the greatest examples of consultation and unity in our history. After the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) passed away, the companions gathered to decide on leadership. Through Shura, Abu Bakr (Karramallahu Wajhah) was chosen as Caliph.
Despite differences, Ali (Karramallahu Wajhah) later gave his support, showing that preserving the unity of the Ummah was more important than personal position. That humility, consultation, and mutual respect are the heart of Shura.

Sadid Quraishi:
Imam, what message would you like to share with Muslims around the world in light of Surah Shura today?

Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli:
Our world is full of division, and Muslims everywhere are seeking guidance. The message of Shura is timeless—it teaches that leadership must be based on consultation, justice, and compassion.
If we apply this principle—from our families to our governments—we can restore trust, unity, and guidance in the Ummah.

Sadid Quraishi:
Beautifully said, Imam. Your khutba on Surah Shura came at a time when Muslims truly need a message of unity and shared responsibility. Thank you for sharing your insights with our readers and listeners.

Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli:
Thank you, Brother Sadid. May Allah guide us all to act upon Shura with sincerity and wisdom.