Hadith Text & Reference

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "This matter (caliphate) will remain with the Quraish even if only two of them were still existing."

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 7140 | Book: Judgments (Ahkaam)

Context & Meaning

This hadith establishes that the leadership (imamah/khilafah) of the Muslim Ummah is specifically designated for the Quraish tribe. The phrase "this matter" refers to the general leadership and caliphate over Muslims.

The expression "even if only two of them were still existing" emphasizes the permanence and exclusivity of this ruling, indicating it remains valid regardless of how small the Quraish population becomes.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Qurtubi explains that this is a clear textual evidence that the imam must be from Quraish, and this was the consensus of the companions and early generations. This condition applies specifically to the supreme leadership of the entire Muslim community.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani states in Fath al-Bari that this hadith indicates the superiority of Quraish and that the caliphate is restricted to them as long as someone qualified from them exists who can undertake this responsibility.

Scholars clarify that this ruling applies when there is a qualified candidate from Quraish who meets the other conditions of leadership. If no qualified Quraishi exists, then leadership may pass to others while maintaining the principle that Quraish have priority when qualified candidates are available.

Legal Implications

This hadith establishes one of the conditions for the caliph: that he must be from the tribe of Quraish. This condition is based on the Prophet's explicit statement and the consensus of the companions.

The wisdom behind this ruling includes: honoring the tribe of the Prophet, maintaining unity by preventing disputes over leadership, and recognizing Quraish's historical experience in governance and diplomacy.