Abu Sa'id reported the Prophet as saying, “Every perfidious one will have a standard at his anus on the day of resurrection.” A version has, “On the day of resurrection every perfidious one will have a standard which will be raised for him according to the amount of his perfidy, and no one is more perfidious than the ruler of a community.” Muslim transmitted it.
The Offices of Commander and Qadi - Mishkat al-Masabih 3727
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This profound hadith transmitted by Imam Muslim through Abu Sa'id al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him) addresses the grave sin of perfidy (ghadr) and betrayal of trust, particularly concerning those in positions of authority.
Exegesis of the Hadith
The term "perfidious one" (ghadr) refers to one who betrays trusts, breaks covenants, and acts treacherously. The imagery of a "standard at his anus" signifies public disgrace and humiliation on the Day of Judgment, where one's hidden treachery becomes manifest for all creation to witness.
The version mentioning the standard being raised "according to the amount of his perfidy" demonstrates the divine justice of Allah - the greater the betrayal, the greater the public humiliation. This serves as both a warning and a manifestation of divine retribution.
Scholarly Commentary on Rulers' Responsibility
Imam al-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy on him) explains in his commentary on Sahih Muslim that rulers bear the greatest responsibility because their treachery affects entire communities. When a ruler betrays his trust, he corrupts the social contract and causes widespread harm.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this hadith emphasizes the principle that positions of authority are divine trusts (amanat), and those who occupy them will be held to the highest standard of accountability before Allah.
Legal and Ethical Implications
Classical scholars derive from this hadith that fulfilling trusts (amanat) is among the most obligatory religious duties, especially for those in governance. The ruler must be just, transparent, and faithful to his responsibilities toward his subjects.
This teaching serves as a powerful reminder that worldly power is temporary, while divine accountability is eternal. It encourages Muslims to select righteous leaders and holds those in authority to the highest ethical standards.