The Duties of the Ruler
The Khalifah holds a position of contract ('Aqd) with the Ummah, entailing specific religious and administrative obligations known as the "Ten Duties" in classical political theory.
The Ten Obligations
Imam al-Mawardi in Al-Ahkam al-Sultaniyya outlines the primary responsibilities that define the executive office. These duties bridge the gap between spiritual preservation and temporal management.
- Protection of the Faith (Hirasat al-Din): Maintaining the religion upon its established principles and protecting it from innovation.
- Enforcement of Law (Ahkam): Executing legal judgments between litigants so that justice prevails and the weak are protected from the strong.
- Defense of Territories (Baydah): Safeguarding the borders and ensuring the security of the people so they may travel and trade without fear.
- Collection of Revenue (Fay' and Zakat): Gathering what is due according to the Shari'ah without oppression or negligence.
- Appointment of Officials: Delegating authority to those who are trustworthy (Amin) and competent (Kafi).
Madhab Comparison: Scope of Authority
While all Sunni schools agree on the core duties, slight variations exist regarding the Khalifah's level of discretion (Ijtihad) in administrative matters.
| School | Primary Focus | Limit of Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Hanafi | Public Welfare (Maslaha) | Bound by existing Fiqh codes adopted by the state. |
| Shafi'i | Legal Precedent | Emphasis on strict adherence to established Nass (Text). |
| Maliki | Sadd al-Dhara'i (Blocking means) | Broad discretion in preventive security and social policy. |
Accountability and Conduct
The ruler is not above the law. Personal conduct must reflect the gravity of the office. The principle of Muhasabah (accountability) allows the Ummah, through the Shura and the Judiciary, to correct the ruler if he deviates.
If the ruler fails to perform his essential duties—specifically if he abandons the protection of the faith or becomes physically or mentally incapacitated—the contract of the Imamah may be dissolved by the Ahl al-Hall wal-Aqd.