With elections round the corner, we continue from our main article in the last issue, examining qualities of a good leader as opposed to a ruler:
A leader emerges among people, a ruler campaigns among people
The Hadith says: ‘Do not ask for a position of authority, for if you are granted this position as a result of your asking, you will be left alone (to discharge the responsibilities associated with it) and if you are granted it without making any request for it, you will be helped (to discharge your responsibilities).’ Muslim
A leaders shows undying concern, a ruler demands compliance
The Qur’aan says regarding the best of leaders, Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wa sallam: ‘There comes to you a Messenger from amongst yourselves; it grieves him that you should suffer; he is so anxious over you; to the Believers is he most kind and merciful.’ (9:128)
The Hadith says regarding the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam: ‘From his mercy is that he never felt it below him to walk along a widow or a poor person to fulfill their needs. He visited the weak and sick Muslims and attended their funerals…’ Bukhari, Ibn Majah
Another hadith mentions: ‘If Allah puts anyone in the position of authority over the Muslims’ affairs and he secludes himself (from them), not fulfilling their needs, wants and poverty, Allah will keep Himself away from him, not fulfilling his need, want and poverty.’ Abu Dawood
Jamiatul Ulama of South Africa
