The Offices of Commander and Qadi - Mishkat al-Masabih 3724

In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate. All praise is to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and blessings and peace be upon our Master Muhammad, his family, and companions.

Context and Transmission

This noble hadith is transmitted through the chain of Abu Burda from his father Abu Musa al-Ash'ari (may Allah be pleased with them both), and is recorded in the authentic collections of Bukhari and Muslim. The Prophet (peace be upon him) delivered this guidance when appointing Abu Musa and Mu'adh ibn Jabal as governors and judges to Yemen.

Scholarly Commentary

The command "Make things easy and do not make them difficult" establishes the fundamental principle of taysir (facilitation) in Islamic governance and jurisprudence. Scholars like Imam Nawawi explain this means removing unnecessary hardships while maintaining religious principles, following the Quranic injunction "Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship" (2:185).

"Gladden and do not scare" instructs rulers to bring hope and comfort to people rather than intimidation. Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments that this includes delivering good news of Allah's mercy and avoiding harshness that drives people away from religion.

"Comply with one another and do not disagree" emphasizes unity among leaders. Al-Qurtubi states this prevents public discord and maintains the dignity of Islamic leadership. Scholars note this doesn't mean compromising religious truths, but coordinating implementation and avoiding public disputes.

Practical Application

This hadith provides comprehensive guidance for all in authority - from judges to administrators. It teaches that Islamic leadership combines firmness in principles with flexibility in application, mercy in approach, and unity in execution. These principles ensure that governance becomes a means of bringing people closer to Allah rather than driving them away.