Two of my cousins on my father’s side and I went in to see the Prophet and one of them said, “Messenger of God, put us in command of part of what God has put in your charge,” the other also saying the same. He replied, “I swear by God that I will not put in charge, of this work anyone who asks for it, or anyone who is eager for it.” In a version he said, “We will not employ in our work one who wants it.” (Bukhari and Muslim.)
The Offices of Commander and Qadi
Mishkat al-Masabih 3683 - Commentary by Mishkat al-Masabih
The Prohibition of Seeking Leadership
This hadith establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic governance: leadership positions should not be sought by those who desire them. The Prophet's emphatic oath ("I swear by God") underscores the gravity of this prohibition.
Scholars explain that those who actively seek authority often do so for personal ambition, status, or worldly gain rather than genuine concern for public welfare. Such individuals may lack the necessary piety, humility, and selflessness required for just leadership.
Spiritual Dangers of Authority-Seeking
Classical commentators note that craving leadership exposes one to spiritual perils including arrogance, neglect of religious duties, and oppression of subjects. The Prophet warned that leadership is a trust (amanah) and responsibility, not an honor or privilege.
Imam Nawawi states in his commentary that the most qualified for leadership are those who flee from it, recognizing its heavy accountability before Allah on the Day of Judgment.
Practical Application in Governance
This teaching guided classical Islamic states in selecting officials. Qualified individuals were appointed based on merit and piety, not personal connections or lobbying. The community's elders would identify and persuade competent, reluctant individuals to accept positions.
The variant narration ("We will not employ in our work one who wants it") extends this principle beyond political leadership to all administrative and judicial positions (qadi), ensuring public offices remain pure trusts rather than objects of ambition.