A truly just leader does not merely soothe the people's pain; he identifies and heals the underlying wound. Genuine leadership is not measured by power, influence, or political authority, but by justice, compassion, accountability, and sincere fear of Allah.*
Every policy enacted by those in authority is known to Allah, Who alone sees the intentions hidden within every heart. A God-fearing leader reflects on the consequences of every decision and does not hesitate to review, amend, or reverse any policy that brings hardship, injustice, or unnecessary suffering upon the people. Such humility is a hallmark of righteous leadership.
*By contrast, a tyrannical leader often ignores the cries of the masses, allowing arrogance and pride to cloud sound judgment. History repeatedly reminds us that oppression never endures. The stories of Pharaoh (Fir'awn), Nimrod, and other arrogant rulers stand as timeless lessons that no worldly power can withstand the justice of Allah.*
*Those who glorified themselves as invincible or untouchable and masters of strategy were ultimately disgraced by Allah, who granted them temporary authority.*
Allah, the Exalted, commands:
«"Indeed, Allah commands justice, excellence, and generosity to relatives, and He forbids immorality, wrongdoing, and oppression." (Qur'an 16:90).»
Allah also says:
«"O you who believe! Stand firmly for justice as witnesses for Allah, even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or your close relatives." (Qur'an 4:135).»
The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
«"Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for those under your care." (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim).»
He also gave glad tidings that the just ruler will be among the seven categories of people who will be shaded by Allah on the Day when there will be no shade except His.
Classical scholars such as Imam Al-Ghazali emphasised that justice is the foundation of every prosperous society, while Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah famously observed that Allah upholds a just state even if it is non-Muslim, but does not uphold an oppressive state, even if it claims to be Muslim.
Likewise, the renowned contemporary scholar Dr Yusuf al-Qaradawi consistently affirmed that justice is one of the supreme objectives (Maqasid) of the Islamic Shari'ah.
May Allah grant our leaders hearts that are filled with wisdom, justice, humility, and compassion.
May He protect every nation from oppression, arrogance, and policies that inflict hardship upon the people. May He make us all steadfast in speaking the truth with wisdom and sincerity, accept our righteous deeds, forgive our shortcomings, and spare our lives to witness many more blessed Jumu'ah in good faith, sound health, and complete submission to Him.
Jumu'ah Mubarakah
*Ustadh Tajudeen Jimoh Alao*
*Proctor/Centre Manager*
*International Open University (IOU)*
*AMC Examination Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State
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