Respecting Other Side via Consultation
The educational method of messengers of God is important and can help people a lot because they are linked with the divine revelation. They receive orders from God, the one who has created man and knows his needs and his path to growth.
Abraham (AS) is among the prophets whose stories are mentioned in different Surahs of the Quran.
One of the important aspects of his life is his use of moral educational methods that can be very instructive for all people.
Among the methods he used was one involving honoring the character of the other side. This method helps to enhance self-esteem and create kindness between the teacher and the one receiving education.
There are many examples of how Abraham (AS) used this method.
1- Holding Angels in High Esteem
In verse 24 of Surah Adh-Dhariat, God relates the story of angels visiting Abraham (AS): “Have you heard the story of the honorable guests of Abraham?”
In this verse, the angels have been described as honorable. According to interpreters of the Quran, this is because Abraham received the angels himself and held them in high esteem.
So Abraham used this method in the most beautiful way and this should be an example for everyone.
2- Consultation in important matters
Consultation is an example of respecting the other side and is a moral act. The teacher or trainer can use this as an educational method in order to teach consultation to the student or trainee.
According to Verse 102 of Surah As-Safat, even when Abraham (AS) was going to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS), he honored him by consulting him: “And when he reached the age of traveling with him, he said: ‘My son, while I was sleeping I saw that I shall slaughter (sacrifice) you, tell me what is your opinion.’ He replied: ‘Father, do as you are ordered (by Allah). Allah willing, you shall find me one of those who are steadfast.’”
This indicates Abraham’s elegance because even as he is going to sacrifice his son at the order of God, he holds him in high esteem and consults with him.
