Despotic, Hereditary Khilafat Or Western Democracy: What Political System Is Closer To Islamic Ideals?
By
Grace Mubashir, New Age Islam
24 October
2023
According
To Quran And Hadeeth, Islam Is Not A Political Ideology, But A Spiritual Path
To Salvation. Hence It Does Not Specify Any Political System, Except Saying Amruhum
Shura Baynahum (Quran 42:38) Meaning Muslims Should Resolve Their Issues
Through Consultation Or Consensus. Thus, In Contemporary Conditions Democratic Governments
Are The Veritable Embodiments Of Islamic Ideals
Main Points:
1. Quran and
Hadeeth don’t provide fixed forms of political system. They demand to follow
any system as long as Muslims are safe to practice Islam.
2. Islam
specifies Muslims should not revolt against their established governments even
if the rulers are unjust and despotic. This is why brutal and despotic Khalifas
continued to rule Muslim countries throughout Islamic history.
3. Islam allows
complete freedom of expression, so peaceful protests would be part of the norm,
but not violence and revolt.
4. Despotic Khalifas
in Islamic history did not allow freedom of expression, though this was against
Islamic norms. They do not allow that
even today, as in Saudi Arabia or Gulf Emirates or Afghanistan under Taliban.
Even Iran, which is a Mullahcracy in the
name of democracy doesn't allow any kind
of freedom, while calling itself an Islamic country. So Muslim countries don't have a history of
even peaceful protests.
5. Islamists
use religious scriptures to argue for Caliphate in order to accumulate
political power.
6. Modern
Democracy as in the West is the culmination of Islamic ideals of rule by
consensus, equality before law, welfare state, caring for the poor and needy,
freedom of expression, freedom of religion, gender justice, etc.
7. Had Islam
not been taken over by the scions of inveterate enemies of Islam during the
time of last of Rashidun Khalifa, Hazrat Ali (AS.), and Muslim ulema and fuqaha
not closed the doors of Ijtihad, it is the Muslim world which would have
evolved these systems of democratic rule long ago. We would have been the
Vishva Gurus for centuries. But now the West has taken the lead, and we should
firmly follow them in this respect, while trying to correct the flaws in their
systems.
8. Those among
us who call for the return of brutal, despotic Khilafat of yore are enemies of
Islam and humanity. We must fight them tooth and nail, ideologically, with the
help of Quran and Hadith, as well as physically, if need be.
-----
The Quran
and Hadith do not explicitly lay down specific political frameworks or
prescribe fixed forms of governance for Muslims. Instead, they emphasize the
overarching principles of justice, peace, and the safety of practicing Islam.
This absence of a detailed political blueprint allows flexibility and
adaptability for Muslims to operate within various societal structures.
According
to Quran and Hadeeth, Islam is not a political ideology, hence it does not
specify any political system, except saying ‘Amruhum Shura Bainahum’ (42:
38), meaning Muslims should resolve their issues through consultation or
consensus. Thus, in contemporary conditions democratic governments are the
veritable embodiments of Islamic ideals.
Quran
teaches ‘Amruhum Shura Bainahum’ demands consultation and choose the
best kind of politics for humankind. It’s a clear remark that Quran does not
support the Caliphate as is argued by modern Islamists. According to Quran, the
political arrangement should be based on consultation; and hence democratic political
governments qualify for this character.
So democratic government systems is better suited to Islamic teachings
rather than despotic, authoritarian and autocratic Islamic Caliphate as
demanded by modern Islamists and supported by vested interests.
The primary
concern highlighted in Islamic scriptures is the ability of Muslims to practice
their faith freely and without fear. As long as the basic rights and safety of
the Muslim community are ensured, the political system in place is considered
acceptable. This stance encourages Muslims to coexist peacefully within diverse
political environments, ranging from monarchies to democracies and from
autocracies to democratic secular states.
The
emphasis on the protection of individual rights and religious freedom reflects
the Quranic emphasis on justice and equity. Prophet Muhammad's teachings
similarly underscore the importance of maintaining a just and fair society,
where all individuals, irrespective of their faith, are treated with respect
and dignity.
This flexibility
in political interpretation within Islamic teachings allows for the
accommodation of various cultural and social contexts, acknowledging the
dynamism and diversity of the societies in which Muslims live. It encourages
the integration of Islamic values and principles within existing political
systems, promoting a harmonious coexistence that is rooted in mutual respect
and understanding.
Islam Demands
Adherence To Ruling System And Forbids Violent Subversive Activities
In Islam,
there is a strong emphasis on maintaining social order and stability, even in
the presence of unjust and despotic rulers. The teachings encourage Muslims to
adhere to established governments and authorities, provided that practicing
Islam remains feasible and the fundamental principles of the faith are not
compromised. This principle has led to the continuation of despotic rulers in
Muslim countries throughout history.
The
rationale behind this concept lies in the understanding that uprisings and
revolts can often lead to chaos, instability, and potential harm to the
community. Consequently, maintaining the existing order, flawed as it may be,
is considered preferable to the potential anarchy that could result from the
overthrow of a ruling authority. The focus is on preventing societal breakdown
and preserving the basic functioning of communities.
However,
this does not imply an endorsement of oppressive or unjust actions by rulers.
Instead, it highlights the importance of pursuing non-violent and constructive
means to address grievances and bring about positive change. Islamic teachings
encourage dialogue, peaceful advocacy, and the pursuit of justice through legal
and ethical channels within the framework of the existing governance
structures.
While the
emphasis on obedience to established authorities remains, there is also a
parallel emphasis on the promotion of justice and the protection of human
rights. The aim is to encourage communities to work towards positive
transformation through constructive engagement and advocacy, seeking to uphold
justice within the confines of the law and ethical principles. This delicate
balance between obedience to authority and the pursuit of justice has been a
central theme in the political history of many Muslim nations.
It is
reported in one Hadeeth in Sahih Muslim: “It is obligatory for you to listen to
the ruler and obey him in adversity and prosperity, in pleasure and
displeasure, and even when another person is given (rather undue) preference
over you.” Again “It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Dharr who said:
My friend (i.e., the Holy Prophet) advised me to listen (to the man in position
of authority) and obey (him) even if he were a slave maimed (and disabled).”
Islam does
not support coups and sabotage that might cause chaos. Throughout Islamic
history, there have been instances where despotic rulers have continued to hold
power, often causing significant harm and suffering. Despite this, Muslim
scholars and communities have sought to navigate these challenges by advocating
for ethical leadership and advising rulers to adhere to the principles of
justice and fairness outlined in Islamic teachings.
Islamists
Use Religious Scriptures To Argue For Caliphate In Order To Accumulate
Political Power
Quran and
Hadeeth don’t provide any particular political system. They demand to follow
any system as long as Muslims are safe to practice Islam. So Islam could be
accommodated in any political set-up as long as Muslims are free to pursue
their religion. Islam does not specify any particular political system of
governance. This is attested by the twin lives of prophet at Makka and Madina.
In Makkan life, Muslims had no political power, but Islam thrived there too.
So, the political power is not intrinsic to Islam’s survival. Even the concept that
Caliphate is compulsory for Muslims arose in the wake of colonialism by
regressive pan-Islamist who used religion to restore their hold on power.
Islamists
use religious scriptures to argue for Caliphate in order to accumulate
political power. They use religion to
enjoy power and the government they espouse is entirely against Islamic ideals.
They don’t allow freedom of expression and peaceful protests for the sake of
human rights. The Caliphate, sold by Islamists, is despotic, authoritarian and
arrogant theocracy. Islam allows complete freedom of expression, so peaceful
protests would be part of the norm, but not violence and revolt. Despotic
Khalifas in Islamic history did not allow freedom of expression, though this
was against Islamic norms. They do not
allow that even today, as in Saudi Arabia. So Muslim countries don't have a
history of even peaceful protests.
Such a
political arrangement is alien to Islam, as Prophet and revered companions
allowed to question the rulers including themselves. As Hazrat Umar (R.A) rose
to lead prayers one Friday, at the peak of his power, a woman got up and, asked
him how come he was wearing a shirt from the piece of cloth distributed the day
before to all Muslims, which was too short for a shirt. Hazrat Umar's son then
got up to say that as his father's shirt was torn from many places, he gave his
piece to him and thus his shirt could be stitched. That was the glory of true
Islam. Any ordinary Muslim could question even the integrity and probity of the
most powerful Khalifa in Islamic history who conquered almost half the then
civilised and known world.
Prophet
himself took all decisions in consultation with people. He gave all freedom to
non-Muslims to live according to their ideologies. These Quranic and prophetic
teachings are spurned by modern advocates of Caliphate.
Western
secular democratic system is the modern-day embodiment of Islamic ideals for governance.
Modern
Democracy as in the West is the culmination of Islamic ideals of rule by
consensus, equality before law, welfare state, caring for the poor and needy,
freedom of expression, freedom of religion, gender justice, etc.
In
practice, it may be flawed in many instances, nevertheless, several elements
inherent in modern democratic systems align with the values and teachings of
Islam, reflecting a shared emphasis on ethical governance and the well-being of
society.
1. Rule by Consensus: The Islamic concept of
Shura, or consultation, emphasizes the importance of mutual decision-making and
consensus-building within the community. Similarly, modern democratic practices
often prioritise the involvement of citizens in decision-making processes,
reflecting a similar emphasis on collective participation and representation.
2. Equality Before Law: Islam advocates
equal treatment of all individuals before the law, irrespective of their social
or economic status. This principle aligns with the democratic ideal of equal
rights and protections under the law, fostering a system where all individuals
are subject to the same legal standards and safeguards.
3. Welfare State and Social Justice:
Islamic
teachings underscore the importance of caring for the less privileged and
ensuring the welfare of society as a whole. Modern democratic societies often
incorporate welfare state policies, aiming to provide social safety nets,
healthcare, and education, reflecting a commitment to social justice and the
well-being of all citizens.
4. Freedom of Expression and Religion: Islam
promotes the importance of freedom of expression and the right to practice
one's religion. Similarly, modern democracies uphold the principles of free
speech and freedom of religion, recognizing the significance of individual
liberties and the right to express diverse viewpoints and beliefs.
5. Gender Justice: Islamic teachings
emphasize gender equity and justice, advocating for the rights and dignities of
women within society. Many modern democratic societies similarly strive to
uphold gender equality and promote the empowerment of women, reflecting a shared
commitment to ensuring equal opportunities and rights for all genders.
While
modern democratic systems are not directly rooted in Islamic principles, they
often echo core values and ideals that resonate with Islamic teachings. This
intersection highlights the potential for shared goals of justice, equality,
and collective well-being across different cultural and historical contexts. By
recognizing these parallels, societies can work towards the development of
governance systems that prioritize the welfare and rights of all individuals,
irrespective of their backgrounds or beliefs.
For
Indian Muslims, Indian Secular Democracy Is The Only Legitimate System Of
Governance
We should
not forget the fact that there is also an attempt to establish a nation and
become a king under the guise of a caliphate. No Muslim has been told that Islam
should take over foreign lands and make them a Muslim nation; Even the Caliph
of Islam has not been given such an instruction by the religion.
At the same
time, peaceful Da'wat (preaching) should be done in every country. It
should be in a peaceful manner. Islam does not argue that Da’wa and Iqamatuddin
(religious activity) can only be done through the institution of the state.
It's politics not taught by Islam.
While
Islamic politics is very clear, those clamouring for a religious state from
India can be called the enemies of Islam and the nation. The constitution gives freedom to every
citizen to embrace and propagate Islam and live according to religion. Despite
some malignant anti-democratic voices, calling for genocide of Muslims,
amplified 24/7 by the powerful mass media, the government has not yet formally
taken away such values from the Constitution. So, according to Islamic
theology, Muslims have to accept and follow the dictates of the government, no
matter how repugnant in their eyes. This is what Islamic theology as well as
history teaches us, as shown above. Muslims can under no circumstances play any
role in destabilising an established system of governance.
No wonder,
Muslim scholars and the general public have always accepted India's secular,
democratic politics.
There is no
instance in Islamic history of attempts to dethrone a ruler even by treachery.
Islamic scholars would never support it. It should also be remembered that
Muslims were far ahead in power at that time. Powerful Army chiefs and Navy
chiefs were often Muslims. Yet they did not attempt to destabilise even a
despotic caliphate.
Conclusion
The
Caliphate ideas being sold by Islamists are not true Islam. This concept is
motivated by vested interests to capture power using religion. Modern Democracy
as in the West is the culmination of Islamic ideals of rule by consensus,
equality before law, welfare state, caring for the poor and needy, freedom of
expression, freedom of religion, gender justice, etc. Had Islam not been taken over
by the scions of inveterate enemies of Islam during the time of last of Khalifa
Rashidin, Hazrat Ali (AS.), and Muslim ulema and Fuqaha not closed
the doors of Ijtihad, it is the Muslim world which would have evolved these
systems of democratic rule long ago.
We would
have been the Vishwa Gurus for centuries. But now the West has taken the lead,
and we should firmly follow them in this respect, despite the many flaws in
their practice. Those among us who call for the return of brutal, despotic
Khilafat of yore are enemies of Islam and humanity. We must fight them tooth
and nail, ideologically, with the help of Quran and Hadith, as well as
physically, if need be.
-----
A regular columnist for NewAgeIslam.com, Mubashir
V.P is a PhD scholar in Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia and freelance
journalist.