Some people say the king is autocratic and does not consult the scholars. How is that? Was there anyone wiser than 'Umar who consulted the Companions?

The questioner : ...other than the scholars. And I say that he is a king wiser than 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) and more consultative with the Companions than he was.

The Shaykh : But 'Umar was a scholar.

The questioner : But he consulted the Companions.

The Shaykh : I mean, you say that some people say the king is autocratic, meaning he does not consult. Well, what do you say? Is there anyone wiser than 'Umar? After him, I say, may Allah bless you, is there anyone more guided than the Messenger? And what did he say to him? Do you understand or not? It is obligatory for every ruler, whether general or specific, if something is unclear to him, to consult. But if the matter is clear, there is no need for consultation. Just as if the work you do is clear, there is no need for istikhara. So the saying of the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him): means if he intends and it is unclear to him, all of it is in what is unclear. And there is no doubt that consultation is seeking light. In reality, consultation is seeking light because man is human and many matters are hidden from him. If opinions gather and are discussed with knowledge and justice, this is necessary: knowledge and justice, no bias. Then Allah will guide them to the truth.