The Offices of Commander and Qadi - Mishkat al-Masabih 3665

This tradition from Imam 'Ali, transmitted in both Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic governance and individual responsibility. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declares, "No obedience is to be given in the case of an act of disobedience to God, obedience is to be given only regarding what is reputable."

Scholarly Commentary (Sharh)

This hadith establishes the absolute prohibition against obeying any created being in matters that constitute disobedience to the Creator. The phrase "ma'ruf" (what is reputable) refers to all that is recognized as good and righteous according to Islamic law, encompassing both religious obligations and universally acknowledged ethical conduct.

Classical scholars like Imam Nawawi explain that this principle applies universally - to rulers, military commanders, parents, and all those in positions of authority. When a command contradicts divine law, the Muslim is obligated to disobey that specific command while maintaining proper conduct toward the authority figure.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani elaborates that this teaching prevents blind following and preserves individual moral accountability. The limitation of obedience to "ma'ruf" ensures that Islamic governance remains grounded in divine guidance rather than arbitrary human will.

Legal Implications

This ruling forms the basis for legitimate civil disobedience in Islamic jurisprudence. A soldier must refuse an order to kill non-combatants. A citizen must reject a ruler's command to suspend obligatory prayers. An employee must decline instructions to engage in fraudulent transactions.

The scholars of Mishkat al-Masabih emphasize that this principle protects both religious integrity and social justice, ensuring that authority serves as a means to establish God's law rather than undermine it.