CSS 2016 Solved Islamiyat Past Papers | Islamic Political System Under Khilafat-I-Rashideen
The following question of Islamiat is solved by Miss Ayesha Irfan, the highest scorer in CSS Islamiat. Moreover, the question is attempted on the same pattern taught by Sir Syed Kazim Ali to his students, scoring the highest marks in compulsory subjects for years. This solved past paper question is uploaded to help aspirants understand how to crack a topic or question, how to write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.
Question Breakdown
About this specific question, the examiner has asked you to explain the significant features of the Islamic Political System at the time of the Pious Caliphate. So, you have to first address the brief overview of the Islamic political system and all Khulafa-e-Rashideen and anyone’s governance era in which the Islamic political system properly flourished and practised. However, to achieve a high score on the exam, give evidence in each paragraph, and keep your time and length in mind, then attempt your question by giving solid 4-5 arguments. Also, this answer is split into two parts, followed by an introduction, critical analysis and conclusion.
Outline
1- Introduction
2- An overview of the Islamic political system
3- Pious Caliphates: A contemporary reappraisal
4- Islamic political system in the light of the Governance of Umar-bin Khattab
- ✓ Upholding justice as the core principle
- ✓ Prioritizing accountability of Leadership
- ✓ Integrating Shura (Consultation) into decision-making practices
- ✓ Maintaining the rule of law and promoting equality before the law
- ✓ Building the standardized administrative reforms
- ✓ Preventing abuse of power, emphasizing public welfare, balancing individual freedom
5- Critical Analysis
6- Conclusion
Answer to the Question
Introduction
The Islamic political system under the caliphate of Hazrat Umar ibn Al-khattab (RA), has flourished and practiced remarkably and having rooted in justice, accountability, and welfare. Nonetheless, he emphasized on some features: justice, public accountability, the welfare of citizens, meritocracy was critical, rule of law was strictly enforced, religious tolerance was practiced; people of other faiths were free to practice their religion and were protected. Umar’s assurance of safety to Christians in Jerusalem is a testament to this principle. Moreover, consultation (Shura) was a core part of governance, where he involved companions in decision-making. This system of consultation reflected an inclusive approach, enhancing public trust in leadership. Simply put, Hazrat Umar’s governance was characterized by justice, accountability, welfare, meritocracy, rule of law, religious tolerance, and consultation, setting a profound example for an Islamic political system.
An overview of the Islamic Political System
Before going deeper into the matter, it is essential to understand the Islamic political system, which is based on the principles of justice, equality, and accountability, with the ultimate goal of implementing Allah’s commands and ensuring the well-being of all citizens. Illustratively, The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The rulers will be entrusted with the affairs of the people, and it is their duty to provide justice, protect the rights of the weak, and maintain the integrity of the community.” Also, the Quran states:
إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْمُرُكُمْ أَن تُؤَدُّوا الْأَمَانَاتِ إِلَى أَهْلِهَا وَإِذَا حَكَمْتُم بَيْنَ النَّاسِ أَن تَحْكُمُوا بِالْعَدْلِ إِنَّ اللَّهَ نِعِمَّا يَعِظُكُم بِهِ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ سَمِيعًا
(Quran 4:58)
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice…”
In the Islamic political system, leadership is considered a trust from Allah, and rulers are accountable to Him for their actions. The Quran and Hadith emphasize the importance of justice, equality, and protecting the rights of all citizens, particularly the weak and vulnerable. Thus this system aims to create a harmonious society where leaders serve the people and ensure their well-being, ultimately they are answerable to Allah for their stewardship.
Pious Caliphates: A Contemporary Reappraisal
- Caliph Abu-Baker Siddique (RA) 632-634 CE
Taking a contemporary glance at the first Caliph of Islam, Abu baker Siddique (RA),who has remarkable leader in Islamic history. His unwavering commitment to justice, compassion, and unity continues to inspire. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) praised Abu Bakr, saying,
“If I were to take a Khalil (close friend) from among the people of this world, I would have taken Abu Bakr”
(Sahih Bukhari)
Abu baker Siddique (RA), first Speech as Khalifah,
“Oh people! I have been selected as your trustee although I am no better than anyone of you. If I am right, obey me. If I am misguided, set me right. Of course truth is honesty and a lie is dishonesty.”
Thus, Abu Bakr’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership, compassion, and unity in contemporary time.
- Caliph Umar Farooq (RA)634 to 644 CE
Second, Caliph Umar Farooq (RA), was a greatest model of leadership, justice, and compassion in contemporary times, exemplifying the values of integrity, fairness, and humility. His remarkable life serves as a testament to his exceptional character. As the second caliph, Umar (RA) established a robust system of governance, ensuring justice and equality for all, regardless of social status or background.His commitment to fairness is evident in his famous statement,
“I am not the king, I am the guardian of the people”.
Umar’s (RA) compassion and empathy towards the poor and vulnerable were unparalleled, as reflected in his instruction,
“If a Muslim becomes hungry, Allah and His Messenger will be displeased with me”
(Ibn Majah)
Furthermore, his unwavering commitment to justice led him to establish the first Islamic police force, ensuring public safety and security. His remarkable legacy continues to inspire leaders and individuals today, demonstrating the timeless relevance of his values and principles.
- Caliph Usman ibn Affan (RA) 644-656CE
Third, Caliph of Islam, Usman ibn Affan (RA), was a significant figure in Islamic history for his dedication to the welfare of the Muslim community and his steadfast piety. One of the most remarkable aspects of his leadership was his financial generosity; he is widely remembered for his substantial contributions to the Muslim community, including funding the army during critical battles and financing the expansion of the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. The Prophet said,
“O Usman, Allah has forgiven you for what you have done in the past and what you will do in the future.”
This statement not only reflects Usman’s exceptional standing but also illustrates the prophetic endorsement of his righteousness. A contemporary look at Hazrat Usman (RA)’s legacy reminds us of the importance of integrity and selflessness in leadership, especially in serving the needs of the broader community with humility and devotion.
- Caliph Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) 656-661CE
Fourth, Caliph of Islam, Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), was a renowned for his wisdom, justice, and devotion, serves as an enduring model of moral and spiritual integrity for contemporary times. His reign as the fourth caliph was marked by his commitment to fairness and empathy, especially toward the vulnerable, and his leadership style emphasized values crucial to any society aiming for justice and ethical governance. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) spoke highly of Ali’s virtues, calling him a “gate of knowledge” and affirming,
“I am the city of knowledge, and Ali is its gate.”
This saying highlights Ali’s profound understanding and spiritual depth, which made him a revered figure in early Islamic history and an exemplary leader whose legacy of humility, courage, and compassion remains relevant to this day. His emphasis on equal rights, regardless of social standing, provides a powerful message for modern societies that strive to cultivate just leadership and community cohesion.
Islamic Political System in the Light of the Governance of Umar-bin Khattab Caliphate
A breakdown of key features of an Islamic political system, illustrated with examples from the governance of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab are mentioned below.
- Upholding justice as the core principle
To begin with, pious caliph Umar(RA) upholded Justice as the core principle to an Islamic political system because it seeks to ensure fair treatment of all citizens. In Islam, justice means upholding the rights of individuals and protecting society against oppression or unfair practices. Caliph Umar emphasized on this principle in numerous ways; notably through his insistence that even he, as Caliph, was not above the law. For example, Umar once stood in court as an equal when a Jewish man filed a complaint against him. This ensured, not only set a precedent for equality, but also strengthened the trust of all citizens in the judicial system. Therefore, his actions reinforced that justice is impartial and essential for a peaceful and harmonious society.
- Prioritising accountability of Leadership
Additionally, the Islamic political system in the time of caliph Umar RA, all leaders were held accountable for their actions, which means he fostered a transparency and trust in governance. Caliph Umar was known for his strict personal accountability, and even, invited criticism from his subjects to ensure he was fulfilling his duties; For instance, when he asked the people to correct him if he strayed from the righteous path; When one person responded that he would do so “even with a sword,” Umar commended him, highlighting his respect for the people’s right to hold their leader accountable. Such accountability strengthens public confidence in governance, as it ensures leaders are actively working for the welfare of their citizens.
- Integrating Shura (Consultation) into decision making practices
Moreover, An essential feature of Islamic governance introduced by caliph Umar (RA) was consultation, where decisions are made collectively through deliberation; Caliph Umar implemented this by consulting his advisors, companions, and representatives from different tribes before making significant decisions. For example, before launching major military campaigns, Umar sought counsel to ensure the well-being of his people and the proper allocation of resources. This consultative approach allowed for diverse perspectives and minimized the risks of uni-lateral decisions, underscoring Islam’s value for inclusive governance.
- Maintaining the rule of law and promoting equality before the law
Next, important political system in the time of caliph Umar RA was to maintain the rule of law and promoting equality before the law in an Islamic state; In fact, everyone at his time was subject to the same laws that ensured equality and curbed favouritism. Caliph Umar embodied this principle by ensuring that no individual, regardless of their status or rank, was above the law; As a demonstration, a well-known case is when he publicly held his own son accountable for a misdeed and subjected him to the same punishment as any other citizen. Conclusively,this impartiality demonstrated that Islamic governance does not permit privileges based on wealth or status, fostering a sense of fairness and equality within the community.
- Building the standardized administrative reforms
Going down the ladder, Amir-ul-momineen Umar (RA), has implemented ground-breaking administrative reforms that standardized and streamlined governance across the vast Islamic empire. In fact, he introduced a key reforms of a standardized system of weights and measures, that ensured fairness in trade and commerce; He (RA) also established a land tax (Kharaj) system, where landowners were taxed based on the fertility and productivity of their land, providing a steady revenue stream for the state. Furthermore, he created a centralized administrative system, which divides the empire into provinces governed by governors (Walis) and established a network of postal services and intelligence Hence, these reforms promoted efficiency, justice, and accountability, that laid the foundation for effective governance in the Islamic world.
- Preventing abuse of power, emphasizing public welfare, balancing individual freedom
Last but not least, several measures were taken to prevent abuse of power by emphasizing public welfare and balancing individual freedom in Umar RA caliphate . One key measure was the establishment of the Bayt al-Mal, a public treasury system that managed the state’s finances transparently. Illustratively, he introduced a pension system for the elderly and established a treasury (Bait al-Mal) to ensure no one in the state went hungry or lacked basic necessities. He also encouraged citizens to report any instances of abuse or corruption directly to him.. caliph Umar established a unique system of administration that protected individual rights while promoting the common good. For instance, he implemented the concept of “Hisbah,” where officials were appointed to ensure public welfare and prevent harm to society, while also safeguarding personal freedoms. Ultimately, Hazrat Umar’s leadership is significant source for the Islamic principle of “Ummah,” where individual rights and collective responsibilities are intertwined for the greater good.
Critical Analysis
Critically, the governance model established by pious caliph offers enduring lessons for modern societies. His commitment to justice, accountability, and transparency ensures fair treatment and trust in leadership. By prioritizing merit-based appointments, Umar’s system reduces corruption and promotes competence. Additionally, his tolerance and protection of minority rights foster social cohesion and inclusivity. The public treasury system he established emphasized responsible financial management. Furthermore, Umar’s consultative approach to decision-making encourages citizen engagement and inclusive governance. These principles remain relevant today, providing a framework for effective leadership, social justice, and prosperity. Therefore, by embracing these values, contemporary societies can build stronger institutions and promote the well-being of all citizens.
Conclusion
Concluding the debate, Umar’s caliphate steps in the political system offer valuable lessons for today’s governance. His emphasis on Justice and Accountability, ensured fair treatment and impartial judgment, exemplified by his instruction that even the Caliph could be taken to task. This principle promotes transparency and trust in leadership. Additionally, Umar’s Merit-based Governance appointments, based on character and capability, reduced corruption and strengthened governance. This approach highlights the importance of competence in leadership positions. However, each of these principles reflects a facet of Islamic political governance demonstrated through Caliph Umar’s leadership, where justice, accountability, public welfare, consultation, and equality were integral in creating a just and compassionate society.
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