Glimpse At Leadership

A Glimpse At Leadership

By: Suha Imran Moten

What is leadership? I am unable to deduce a clear definition on what it means to be a leader. The roles and qualities of a leader are contingent upon the society and the people one is leading. However, there are certain aspects of leadership that are the same throughout a leader’s role which is to justly guide members towards a common goal. By perfecting the diminutive, everything eventually falls into place. Leadership in my eyes is not about dominating others, rather leadership is showing how to interact as a whole in order to accomplish one’s goals. Leaders throughout Islamic history have led society with their personality and intellect. In this paper, I will present the qualities of a just leader and a few of the significant leaders that have made an impact throughout Islamic history, as well as present day.

What Makes A Good Leader

Leaders are not only recognized by their leadership ability but also for their personality, cultural competency and flexibility. There are certain values that an individual must present in order to be considered as a leader. For instance, a leader must have a clear vision and not lead by force. Working collectively allows one to stay humble and accept one’s shortcomings. Therefore, seeing eye to eye allows unity within the community which ultimately leads to advancements and prosperity. Furthermore, having the ability to make just decisions even during a difficult time is a quality that is a necessity for an individual in power. Making an ethical decision does not always come easy; and it becomes even harder when placed in a position of power. At that point, it is vital that a leader has taqwa (God consciousness), and is able to put aside personal gains and come to a just conclusion. This may result in a decision that strays from popular belief. However, it is the job of a leader to stand by his/her decision by the help of Allah SWT. This will lead one to earn the respect of the entire community. Respect is earned, not given. Respect is earned through one’s character. A leader must be the exemplar of society; being placed on a pedestal to lead is very different from earning respect of the collective society. Leadership is having the ability to mold individuals of society into an active unit in which every member excels. In order to do so, a leader must know every member of their team and not be afraid to look outside their comfort zone to understand the members of their community. This will allow a leader to survey the land and community to ensure the work quality of all. Lastly, this collaborative process of working together must be complemented with the awareness that success is a byproduct of the collective efforts of everyone and not just their own doings.

Caliph Umar Ibn Al-Khattab RA

A Caliph that resonates with me when the term “leadership” comes to mind, is Umar Ibn Al-Khattab RA. As the successor of Abu Bakr RA, he was one of the most influential and powerful Caliphs throughout Islamic history. He was known for his sternness before converting to Islam. However, after accepting the faith, he was able to lead the ummah with grace and softness. He was the leader who was stern in terms of policy and law, but never fell short of forming relationships with every member of the society. He was a leader known to help the elderly woman who badmouthed him carry her goods across borders. At the end of one particular trip, when the woman inquired for his name, Umar RA’s placid response was, “I am the Umar who you have been speaking of.” The old lady was in awe and became afraid of what was to come. However, Umar RA assured her that he did not carry a grudge and appreciated the criticism. Likewise, it takes a leader to avidly listen to

one’s mistakes and show willingness to learn from them rather than respond to the feedback by punishing the critic. Throughout his remarkable expansion, Umar RA controlled general policy and laid down the principles for administering conquered regions. The structure and foundation of the later Islamic empire, including legal practice, is largely due to him. Further, Umar RA established the dīwān (a register of warriors’ pensions that over time evolved into a powerful governmental body), inaugurated the Islamic Hijrī calendar, and created the office of the qadi (judge). His impeccable leadership qualities were not gone unnoticed as he was able to win the hearts of his community and was able to expand the Muslim ummah through his tactful leadership abilities.

How To Be A Leader Today

As Muslims living in a predominantly non-Muslim community, we are no longer part of an expanding empire. However, taking small steps within our community, such as clothing the unfortunate, or paying Sadaqa (charity to the poor) are also acts of leadership. I take the initiative to teach kids with disabilities how to read the Qur’an, pray, and interact with their peers at my local Saturday school. Although small acts like such do not change all of humanity, they do impact the individual, the family and the community. If every individual is to lead and blossom within their community with the right intentions, it is possible to become a leader. Leadership does not necessarily mean holding a position of authority; it just means that you are able to lead a group of individuals with good morals and empathy.

Conclusion

All of civilization is dependent on an efficient leader. One can ponder upon ancient Mesopotamia where civilization depended on the Euphrates or the relationship between Egypt and the Nile River. When settlers first settled into these areas, they insured that they had a plan and some form of leadership so they can survive and have a healthy lifestyle. Superficially similar to clean water, a just leader is a necessity to living. Lack of or the contamination of clean water may lead to lead in Lake Michigan or natural debris in a well near Gaza. Similarly, having a corrupt leader can lead to the deterioration of society.