Verse: "And consult them in the matter." (3:159)
Definition: Shura is the participation of qualified experts in decision-making — Allah commanded His Prophet (peace be upon him) to consult despite his exalted status, as a lesson for the Ummah.
When is it obligatory?
- For the ruler/leader: In public matters affecting the Ummah — jihad, peace, governance — obligatory both religiously and politically.
- For individuals: Recommended in personal matters like marriage, trade, and seeking knowledge.
- In family fiqh: "Mutual consultation" in weaning (2:233) — obligatory between spouses.
Its limits:
- No shura on matters definitively established by Sharia — shura applies to ijtihad-based and public-interest matters, not fixed rulings.
- Per the majority of scholars, the outcome is not binding on the leader if he sees the correct course elsewhere — "Once you have decided, place your trust in Allah" follows the command to consult.
- Ibn Hazm and others hold: the decision of the people of authority is binding.
Question: When is shura obligatory and when recommended? Is its outcome binding?
Answer: Obligatory for rulers in public affairs; recommended for individuals. Its outcome is not binding per the majority — "Once you have decided, trust in Allah."