Abu Huraira reported the Prophet as saying, “The B. Isra’il were governed by the prophets, as often as one died another taking his place. There will be no prophet after me, but there will be numerous caliphs.” He was asked what command he had to give and replied, “Fulfil the oath of allegiance to each and give them their due for God will question them about what He asked them to guard.” (Bukhari and Muslim.)
The Offices of Commander and Qadi - Mishkat al-Masabih 3675
This narration from Abu Huraira, recorded in both Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, establishes fundamental principles of Islamic governance after the cessation of prophethood. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) distinguishes between the era of Banu Isra'il, where leadership was exclusively prophetic, and the Muslim community's era, where leadership transfers to caliphs.
Scholarly Commentary on Succession
The phrase "no prophet after me" confirms the finality of prophethood with Muhammad (peace be upon him), while "numerous caliphs" indicates the continuity of political and religious leadership through the institution of khilafah. Classical scholars like Imam Nawawi explain that caliphs here refer to those who undertake the affairs of Muslims and implement Islamic law.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari emphasizes that the multiplicity of caliphs indicates different eras and regions may have legitimate rulers, provided they govern according to Islamic principles.
Obligations Toward Rulers
The command to "fulfil the oath of allegiance to each" establishes the binding nature of bay'ah (pledge of allegiance) in Islamic political theory. Scholars like Ibn Taymiyyah clarify this means obedience in what is right and proper, not in disobedience to Allah.
"Give them their due" refers to both the rights rulers have over subjects and the responsibilities they owe to their people. Al-Qurtubi explains this includes justice, consultation, and protection of rights.
The concluding warning that "God will question them" serves as a reminder of accountability for both rulers and subjects regarding their mutual rights and obligations in the Islamic social contract.