حکمران کی تنصیب کے بنیادی اصول : اہلِ کتاب اور اسلام کی تعلیمات کا تقابلی جائزہ

Fundamental Principles of the Appointment of Rulers: A Comparative Analysis of the Doctrines of Ahl-e-Kitab and Islam

Abstract

The question of political leadership and the appointment of rulers has always been of central significance in religious and social thought. While all aspects of governance are important, the process of appointing a ruler constitutes the foundational stage upon which the entire structure of authority rests. In the Judaic tradition, as reflected in the sacred texts, the rise of kings and rulers is mentioned with explicit reference to their methods of selection and the establishment of their rule. Similarly, Islam provides comprehensive guidance regarding the appointment of rulers, not only emphasizing individual reform but also stressing the necessity of collective life under an organized government. The Qur’ān, the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and the practice of the Rightly Guided Caliphs present detailed principles and historical precedents concerning this issue. This article undertakes a comparative and analytical study of the teachings of the People of the Book and Islam on the installation of rulers, highlighting both the similarities and the distinctive features of each tradition.