Friday Sermon: The Role of Islamic Scholars in Politics

The participation of Islamic scholars in politics is fundamentally aimed at ensuring that governance acts as a vessel for justice, serves the populace, and shields the marginalized.

In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy.

All accolades are for Allah, who guided the Muslim community by sending the esteemed Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), distinguished by his integrity and profound character. I testify that there is no deity deserving of worship but Allah, and I testify that Muhammad is His servant and messenger. May Allah bless him, his family, and companions abundantly.

Esteemed brothers and sisters, the political leadership exemplified by Prophet Muhammad was a fusion of spiritual, moral, and administrative prowess, which transformed a divided society into a unified, just, peaceful, and formidable state.

Upon relocating to Madinah in 622 AD, the Prophet crafted a significant document known as the "Sahifat al-Madinah" (The Charter of Madinah). This was a political constitution designed for a nascent state comprising Muslims, Jews, and pagans, establishing the notion that rights should arise from citizenship rather than tribal lineage. The charter encompassed religious freedoms, equal entitlements, and security for all signatories.

The principle of Shurah (consultation) was introduced, allowing companions and followers to express their thoughts, and even challenge the Prophet if needed. An illustrative instance involved Caliph Umar Ibn al-Khattab, who when trying to impose dowry limits, was corrected by a woman citing a Qur’anic verse. He conceded, proclaiming, "The woman is right and Umar is wrong," showcasing the accountability embedded in their leadership.

When a noblewoman from the Makhzum tribe committed theft, there were attempts made by companions to intervene on her behalf. The Prophet firmly responded: "Even if Fatimah, the daughter of Muhammad, were to steal, I would have her hand severed," stressing that justice must be blind to wealth and status.

In 628 CE, Muhammad (Peace be upon him) enacted a treaty with the Makkans, seemingly unfavorable to Muslims at the time. Despite the discontent among his companions, the temporary peace facilitated rapid propagation of Islam compared to warfare. What was once criticized turned into a significant political triumph for the Ummah in retrospect.

Upon the conquest of Makkah after years of persecution, instead of seeking vengeance, Muhammad declared, "Go, for you are free," forgiving former adversaries and converting them into steadfast supporters, thereby fostering lasting peace.

The essence of Muhammad's rule was a rejection of excessive power; he did not live in opulence or shield himself with guards, famously stating: "The leader of a community is their servant." He engaged with the downtrodden, keenly aware of their struggles. His transparency earned him the trust of even his detractors, establishing a foundation of ethical leadership. The state he established in Madinah granted equal rights to non-Muslims, preparing companions for leadership roles that transcended mere followership.

Brothers and sisters, in our current global landscape, the tendency to view Islamic scholars’ roles in politics as crucial is rising. Their involvement is often seen as essential for promoting good governance, justice, and Islamic values within democratic frameworks. While opposing views argue that such engagement might taint a scholar’s religious authority, many contend that participation is vital in curbing oppression, corruption, and demarginalization.

Scholars argue that engaging in governance is a religious obligation aimed at maximizing benefits and minimizing harm to the Ummah. Their active participation is essential for maintaining the identity and interests of Muslims in a secular or multicultural society. Conversely, non-involvement raises concerns of ceding control over Muslim matters to those who may not honor Islamic principles, potentially leading to detrimental governance.

Islamic scholars are thereby prompted to join politics to enact positive changes, combat injustices, and advocate for moral integrity in public life. The Prophet Muhammad stated, "The scholars are the successors of the Prophets" (Abu Dawud), illustrating the expansive role they should play beyond the confines of the mosque.

If scholars refrain from political engagement, the void left can lead to corruption and tyranny, as individuals who disregard Islamic values may fill that space.

Opposition to political engagement often stems from the belief that it may tarnish the integrity of the Ummah, yet numerous prophetic examples underscore that participation is permissible for achieving social good.

For instance, when Prophet Yusuf sought to serve as Egypt's treasurer, it was an engagement in governance that did not adhere to divine law, chiefly for public welfare. Thus, if Allah’s Prophet ventured into state governance to fend off famine, it is also permissible for his followers to seek justice within contemporary systems.

While participation is paramount, the integrity of Islamic scholars serves as their shield. They must not leverage their religious status to condone injustices or to cloak political failures in religious attire.

Ultimately, politics should be a means to foster peace and righteousness, not a conduit for power hoarding. Collaborative decision-making is vital, and any inaction risks societal marginalization. Islamic scholars must remain, both in spirit and deed, servants of Allah rather than subservient to political factions.

In conclusion, I offer all praise to The Almighty Allah, and may His blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad, the last Messenger and the seal of Prophets.