Historical precedence is not an evidence for permissibility. That it is not a source of Islamic ruling should be clear – if taken to its conclusion that would mean that we can point to the actions of some of the leaders historically to align themselves with groups hostile to the Muslims such as the crusaders or Mongols, or enforced hereditary rule, or other indiscretions of specific rulers which went unchecked, whether personal or otherwise – and suggest that they were also permitted since they took place. Such an argument is irresponsible, incorrect and contrary to Islamic thought.
Caliphate contentions
A Brief Response to Dr. Ovamir Anjum’s “Who Wants the Caliphate?”
Dr. Ovamir Anjum's recent piece for the Yaqeen Institute entitled "Who wants the Caliphate?" is certainly worth a read. It is a fairly substantial long-read for an internet article, so to summarise just a few of the points I found interesting; please note there is much more in the article than what I mention below, … Continue reading A Brief Response to Dr. Ovamir Anjum’s “Who Wants the Caliphate?”
Caliphate Contentions (3): There is nothing in the Prophetic example (sunna) to suggest that establishing a Caliphate is an obligation upon the Muslims.
[TL:DR 1. There are several Prophetic narrations which indicate the obligation of both establishing an Imam, and of obeying an Imam 2. Any narration which talks about the necessity to obey the Imam of the Muslims is also a proof of the necessity to establish such an Imam if it isabsent 3. These narrations link … Continue reading Caliphate Contentions (3): There is nothing in the Prophetic example (sunna) to suggest that establishing a Caliphate is an obligation upon the Muslims.
Caliphate Contentions (2): The obligation to establish a Caliphate is not mentioned in the Quran, and therefore is not an obligation.
[TL:DR1. The obligation can be derived from the Quran directly 2. Every verse that mentions a law that must be implemented is an evidence for the obligation to establish an authority to implement that law 3. Ali Abdul Raziq was the first contemporary scholar to make the claim there was no evidence in the quran … Continue reading Caliphate Contentions (2): The obligation to establish a Caliphate is not mentioned in the Quran, and therefore is not an obligation.
Caliphate Contentions (1): There was no consensus among the companions that appointing a Caliph is obligatory upon the Muslims.
[TL:DR] 1. There is a clear consensus of companions upon the necessity to appoint an Imam2. Their consensus also shows that they considered appointing the Khalifa to be an utmost priority, which was prioritised over both the burial of the Prophet – peace be upon him – and the sanctity of life.3. The companions differed … Continue reading Caliphate Contentions (1): There was no consensus among the companions that appointing a Caliph is obligatory upon the Muslims.