The Offices of Commander and Qadi - Mishkat al-Masabih 3745

This tradition from Abu Huraira, transmitted by Imam Bukhari, addresses the proper distribution of public wealth by those in authority. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) clarifies that his role in distributing resources is not based on personal preference but divine command.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith establishes the principle that rulers and administrators must distribute public funds according to established Islamic guidelines, not personal discretion. The phrase "where I have been commanded" refers to the divinely-revealed criteria for zakah distribution and public treasury allocation.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes in Fath al-Bari that this teaching prevents accusations of favoritism and ensures justice in resource distribution. The Prophet's statement serves as a precedent for all subsequent Muslim leaders, emphasizing that public wealth is a trust (amanah) to be distributed according to Islamic law.

Al-Qurtubi adds that this principle applies particularly to judges (qadis) and military commanders, who must administer justice and resources without personal bias, following only the dictates of Shariah in their official capacities.

Legal Implications

This hadith forms the foundation for Islamic public finance law, requiring transparency and adherence to fixed categories of recipients for zakah and other public funds. It prohibits nepotism and arbitrary distribution of state resources.

Scholars derive from this that officials must maintain meticulous records of distributions and be prepared to account for their decisions before both earthly authorities and the Divine Court.