‘Abdallah b. ‘Umar told that he heard God's Messenger say, “He who throws off obedience will meet God on the day of resurrection without possessing any plea, and he who dies without having taken an oath of allegiance will die like a pagan.” Muslim transmitted it.
The Offices of Commander and Qadi
A commentary on the hadith from Mishkat al-Masabih 3674 by Imam Mishkat al-Masabih
Textual Analysis
This profound narration from Abdullah ibn Umar contains two weighty declarations from the Prophet Muhammad concerning the obligation of allegiance to the legitimate Muslim ruler.
The first part addresses active rebellion: "He who throws off obedience will meet God on the day of resurrection without possessing any plea." This indicates that discarding lawful obedience to the Imam is a major sin that strips one of valid excuses before Allah.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars explain that "throwing off obedience" refers to armed rebellion against a legitimate Muslim ruler, even if he commits injustice, so long as he does not command disobedience to Allah. This prohibition preserves communal unity and prevents civil strife.
The second portion addresses passive neglect: "He who dies without having taken an oath of allegiance will die like a pagan." Scholars clarify this refers to one who willfully rejects the necessity of having an Imam and dies without giving allegiance to any Muslim ruler, thus dying upon the manner of pre-Islamic ignorance.
Legal Implications
This hadith establishes the obligatory nature of having a single Imam for the Muslim community and the requirement to give him allegiance. The scholars differentiate between the initial pledge of allegiance and ongoing obedience.
The severe warning in both cases underscores the importance of political unity in Islam and the grave spiritual consequences of undermining the legitimate leadership structure established for the protection of religion and worldly affairs.