An Interpretive-Narrative Analysis of the Consultations of the Noble Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Quranic and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology, University of Mazandaran, Babulsar, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Quranic and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology, Razavi University of Islamic Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

Abstract

The Noble Quran explicitly commands the Holy Prophet to consult with others in certain matters. Although the virtue of consultation is evident, the obligation imposed upon the Prophet to consult appears, at first glance, contradictory. This is because the Prophet, who possesses perfect wisdom, according to the Quran’s explicit testimony, spoke out of personal desire; rather, his speech was nothing but revelation received from Allah. This study, conducted through a descriptive-analytical method, seeks to resolve this initial apparent contradiction by means of an interpretive-narrative examination of the relevant verses. The findings demonstrate that by distinguishing between two aspects of the Prophet’s role that are the aspect of prophethood and the aspect of governance and adjudication, this contradiction can be resolved. According to this distinction, consultation has no place in the prophetic role concerning the conveyance of divine laws and ordinances. However, in the realm of governance and judicial matters, resorting to consultation is both necessary and fully consistent with other Quranic evidence. This is because Islamic teachings clearly stipulate that judicial decisions must be based on evidence, testimony, and apparent legal rulings, just as governmental affairs must aim at securing the general welfare. It is well understood that both evidence and public welfare are attainable through consultation. The results of this research are applicable in the fields of Hadith studies and Quranic exegesis, as well as beneficial in the areas of civilizational studies and Islamic governance.

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References

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Biannual Journal of research in the interpretation of Quran
Volume 12, Issue 23
August 2025
Pages 385-408

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History

  • Receive Date: 25 November 2025
  • Revise Date: 29 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 23 January 2026

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