Abu Sa'id reported God's Messenger as saying, “No prophet is sent by God and no caliph succeeds another without having two close associates, one who commands and urges him to do what is reputable and one who commands and urges him to do what is evil. The one who is protected is he whom God protects.” Bukhari transmitted it.
The Offices of Commander and Qadi - Mishkat al-Masabih 3691
This tradition from Abu Sa'id al-Khudri, transmitted by Imam al-Bukhari, addresses the spiritual reality of leadership and the constant moral struggle faced by those in positions of authority.
Commentary on the Two Associates
The "two close associates" represent the perpetual internal and external counsel every leader encounters. The first urges towards ma'ruf (all that is good, reputable, and recognized by sound intellect and divine law), while the second incites towards munkar (all that is evil, reprehensible, and forbidden).
Scholars explain these are not necessarily two specific individuals, but rather the constant presence of competing influences—the nafs al-lawwamah (the self-reproaching soul) and the nafs al-ammarah bis-su' (the soul that commands evil), alongside advisors, companions, and societal pressures.
The Scope of Leadership
The mention of "prophet" and "caliph" extends this principle to all forms of leadership and authority, including judges (qadis), commanders, and rulers. It signifies that no one in a position of responsibility is immune from this spiritual test.
Divine Protection is the Ultimate Safeguard
The concluding statement, "The one who is protected is he whom God protects," is the core lesson. It emphasizes that ultimate success and preservation from misguidance are not from one's own strength or intelligence, but are a gift (tawfiq) and protection (hifz) from Allah. This instills humility and dependence upon God in all affairs of governance.
Practical Implications for Rulers
A wise leader must consciously seek out and heed the counsel of the righteous and the scholars, while being wary of sycophants and those with corrupt motives. The hadith serves as a warning against arrogance and self-reliance, urging constant self-assessment and supplication for divine guidance.