The Status of The Mansabdar and His Responsibilities In Light of Islamic Teachings Page 59-66

Abstract

This study investigates the Islamic conceptualization of positions of authority and their associated responsibilities through the lens of the Prophetic Seerah (biography), as informed by the primary sources of the Quran and Hadith. It asserts that within Islam, any position of leadership or public trust (Manṣab) constitutes not a privilege but a sacred duty (Amanah) and an act of worship. The research demonstrates that the Seerah offers a timeless, practical paradigm for ethical leadership and governance. The paper is organized into four principal chapters. The first chapter examines the conceptual foundations, defining authority as a divine trust, as underscored in the Quranic verse (4:58), and elaborates upon the Hadith: "Every one of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock" (Sahih al-Bukhari). The second chapter delineates the core responsibilities of those in authority, focusing primarily on establishing absolute justice (Quran 38:26), serving the people selflessly, and governing through consultation (Shura), as exemplified by the Prophet (ﷺ) during critical events such as the Battle of the Trench and the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah. The third chapter transitions to an analysis of how the Seerah provides a framework for character building (Tarbiyah) for successive generations. It highlights the Prophet's (ﷺ) methodology in mentoring young companions, such as Mu‘adh ibn Jabal, by entrusting them with significant responsibilities, thereby establishing a paradigm for youth development grounded in knowledge, moral integrity, and progressive empowerment. The final chapter discusses contemporary applications, deriving principles for combating corruption, fostering compassion in leadership, and instilling a profound sense of accountability—both in this world and the Hereafter. The study concludes that the Seerah furnishes a comprehensive and divinely guided system for leadership and civic responsibility.