Ma'qil b. Yasar told that he heard God’s Messenger say, “Any governor in charge of Muslim subjects who dies while acting dishonestly towards them will be excluded by God from paradise.” (Bukhari and Muslim.)
The Offices of Commander and Qadi
Mishkat al-Masabih 3686 - Commentary by Mishkat al-Masabih
Hadith Text
"Any governor in charge of Muslim subjects who dies while acting dishonestly towards them will be excluded by God from paradise."
Commentary
This hadith establishes the grave responsibility of leadership in Islam. The term "governor" encompasses all positions of authority over Muslims - from caliphs to local administrators.
Dishonesty (ghish) refers to betrayal of trust, misappropriation of public funds, injustice in judgment, or failure to fulfill the duties of office. The exclusion from Paradise indicates the severity of this sin when committed by those in authority.
Scholars explain that this warning applies to anyone entrusted with Muslim affairs who abuses their position. The prohibition remains until death, emphasizing the necessity of repentance before one's final breath.
This teaching underscores that Islamic leadership is a sacred trust (amanah), not a means of privilege or oppression. Rulers are custodians accountable to God for their stewardship.
Legal Implications
The hadith establishes that betrayal of public trust constitutes major sin (kabirah).
Scholars derive that officials must be removed from positions if found dishonest.
This principle extends to all positions of trust within the Muslim community.