From Caliphs to Cabinets: What British Politics Can Learn from Islamic Leadership
Aside from the cool head gear
Cool headgear aside, there’s lots we can adopt from Islamic conceptions of leadership I’m no scholar but as with most things, I have an opinion.
As young Muslims living in Britain we find ourselves learning about and admiring previous generations (of Muslims). Their achievements are broad from environmentalism to advancements in technology, science and politics. It is this reverence that has for me at-least formed a disconnect between the values held by who I consider the righteous predecessors and those I who weave together to form our political tapestry. I am no stranger to the idea of civilisations in conflict yet I pay it no notice. I do whoever believe we can learn and take from the best aspects of one another living in a multi-dimensional multicultural society as we do - on a road towards harmony and unity as a nation.
One such value I believe we can take from is a culture of humility in leaders. In a time where lettuces have out lasted prime ministers and political shenanigans are making headlines I believe that there is a space for us to reconsider what we expect and demand from out politicians. The following is a short discussion of one of the values of Islamic leadership I believe we in Britain can benefit from.
In the early days of Islam, the humility and selflessness of the early Muslims were admirable traits that played a significant role in the formation and growth of the Islamic community. These early Muslims demonstrated a deep sense of humility and shied away from positions of leadership, not out of fear, but out of a sincere belief in the virtues of modesty, service, and putting the needs of the community above their own.
One of the most striking examples of this humility was the reluctance of Abu Bakr, the close companion of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), to assume the role of the first Caliph after the Prophet's demise. Despite being highly regarded by the Muslim community and the Prophet himself, Abu Bakr hesitated to take up the mantle of leadership. Instead, he urged the people to choose someone more suitable, maintaining that he was not the best among them. It was only after much persuasion from the community that he eventually accepted the role.
This early Islamic ethos of humility and selflessness in leadership can teach modern British politicians valuable lessons. The current political landscape often seems to be marked by self-interest, power struggles, and an insatiable desire for control. There is a sense of entitlement among some politicians, who believe they are destined for leadership and should be entrusted with power. However, the early Muslims provide an example of how leadership should be seen not as a privilege, but as a responsibility to serve the people and the greater good.
Sufi leaders are often known for their humility, compassion, and strength of character, which are all qualities that are much needed in the world of politics. One example of a Muslim leader who embodied these traits was Saladin, the 12th century ruler of Egypt and Syria. Despite being a fierce military commander and renowned strategist, Saladin was also admired for his humility and generosity, both to his own people and to his enemies.
Saladin was known for treating his prisoners of war with respect and kindness, even offering them food and water from his own supply. He was also known for his magnanimity in victory, often sparing the lives of defeated foes and even giving them gifts as a sign of goodwill. This type of behaviour demonstrates the power of humility and generosity, which are often overlooked in the cut-throat world of politics.
In the context of British politics, we could certainly learn a lot from leaders like Saladin. By prioritising humility and compassion, politicians could build stronger relationships with their constituents and work towards a more inclusive and just society. At the end of the day, it's not just about winning elections or gaining power - it's about serving the people and building a better world for everyone.
The adoption of such an ethos in modern British politics would necessitate a shift in focus from individual ambitions to the collective welfare of the nation. Politicians would need to prioritize the needs of their constituents, considering not only their own interests but also the overall well-being of society. They would need to develop an attitude of service, approaching their roles with a genuine desire to improve the lives of those they represent.
This shift in mindset could have far-reaching benefits for British society. A more humble and selfless approach to leadership could lead to more thoughtful and compassionate policy decisions, as politicians would be more inclined to empathise with the struggles of their constituents. It could also foster greater collaboration and cooperation among political parties, as the focus would shift from personal ambitions to the common good.
But can such an ethos be realised within the framework of a modern democracy? Democracies, by nature, rely on competition for power and the presentation of alternative visions of governance. It is not uncommon for politicians to engage in self-promotion and to tout their own qualifications and achievements in their quest for public office.
However, it is possible to strike a balance between the competitive nature of democracy and the humble leadership exemplified by the early Muslims. Politicians can still present their ideas and qualifications without succumbing to arrogance and self-aggrandisement. They can approach their campaigns with a spirit of service and a genuine commitment to the welfare of their constituents.
This would require a change in the political culture and the way politicians are selected and groomed for leadership. Political parties could place greater emphasis on the character and integrity of their candidates, selecting those who display a genuine concern for the well-being of others and a willingness to serve. The media, too, could play a role by highlighting the virtues of humility and selflessness, rather than focusing on the sensational aspects of political contests.
The early Muslims' reluctance to assume positions of leadership out of humility offers a valuable lesson for modern British politics. By adopting a spirit of service and prioritising the common good over personal ambitions, politicians can work towards creating a more compassionate and effective political landscape. While the competitive nature of democracy may pose challenges to the realisation of such an ethos, it is possible to strike a balance by promoting humility and selflessness in political leadership. This would not only benefit the politicians themselves but would also have far-reaching positive effects on British society.
These may be naïve idealistic ramblings to some and that’s completely fine – I am no scholar or political expert. Feel free to have your say and please do take a moment to share, make fun of or critique this little essay.
LOL
(Lots of Love),
Taaha
I like how you've broken down simply about how this system works and how in early Islamic days what it was like.
I think it's important to know that
1. The West have no intention to take lessons of leadership from mozlems and the mozlems are the ones following the laws of Allah swt. But the West is man decides the law and what is right and wrong not Allah.
2. This is fundemental in understanding the key difference
1 is godless and the other sovereignty belongs to Allah swt.