The Wisdom Behind Obeying the Ruler

So we must understand matters properly.

So obeying the ruler is obligatory, not for his benefit, as some think.

Rather, it is in our interest. The benefit returns to us.

The ruler only bears toil and dangers.

May Allah ﷻ help them and guide their steps.

We are the ones who rest in security.

and stability and comfort.

As for those in authority, they bear toil and hardship.

But Allah ﷻ sent them to us as a mercy for us.

So we must know this and remember it.

And this is mentioned in the creed of Ahl al-Sunnah wa'l-Jama'ah.

Among the principles of Ahl al-Sunnah wa'l-Jama'ah is obeying the Muslim ruler.

Even if he has shortcomings, even if he has violations.

And even if he has.

Something that does not reach the level of disbelief and leaving Islam.

Imam Ahmad RH was asked.

It was said to him: So-and-so is pious and upright in his religion.

But he is weak in judgment.

And another man is strong in judgment, but has weakness in uprightness.

Which of them is fit for authority? He said: The one with strong judgment.

Even if he is weak in some religious matters.

Because his weakness affects himself, and his strong judgment benefits Muslims.

This is fiqh in Allah's religion. This is fiqh in Allah's religion.

Thus, the one with sound judgment and wise statesmanship is preferred.

Even if he is not completely upright.

Provided it does not reach the point of leaving Islam.

He is preferred—preferred over others.

Because the pious one's weakness harms the Muslims.

while the sinner's sound judgment benefits the Muslims.

So this is what is considered.

That is why Muslims, through the ages, obeyed those in authority.

despite their shortcomings and the reservations about them.

They obeyed their rulers.

Because they followed the counsel of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.

In his ﷺ words. "I counsel you to fear Allah."

"And listen and obey—listen and obey— even if a slave is appointed over you."

"For whoever among you lives will see many differences."

What protects against such division?

It is adhering to the Muslim community and its Imam.

This protects against division. This brings security and stability.

Praise be to Allah.

So we must understand matters properly.