He told that he heard God’s Messenger say, “If anyone comes to you when you are united under one man desiring to split you or cause parties in your community, kill him.” Muslim transmitted it.
The Offices of Commander and Qadi
Mishkat al-Masabih 3678 - Commentary by Mishkat al-Masabih
Textual Analysis
This hadith establishes the grave prohibition against causing division within the Muslim community when it is united under legitimate leadership. The phrase "united under one man" refers to the established Imam or legitimate ruler whose authority is recognized by the community.
The command "kill him" indicates the severity of this offense in Islamic law, classifying it as one of the capital punishments reserved for those who seek to destroy the social and political unity of Muslims.
Legal Rulings
Scholars clarify that this ruling applies specifically to those who actively work to create schism through rebellion or sedition when the community is properly united under legitimate Islamic governance.
The punishment is not applied to mere differences of opinion or theological debates, but rather to active political sedition that threatens to fracture the community's unity and stability.
Contextual Understanding
This ruling was revealed in the context of protecting the nascent Muslim state from internal subversion and political fragmentation. It serves as a protective measure for the collective security and religious integrity of the Muslim ummah.
Classical scholars emphasize that this hadith demonstrates the Islamic principle of prioritizing collective welfare and preventing greater harm (dar' al-mafasid) over individual liberties when they threaten the community's existence.