Approaching the West — Page 53
A pproaching the West—53 gentle persuasion among various faith traditions. It exhorts to establish fundamental human rights at all levels, and promotes human services. The Institution of Sh ū r ā in the A ḥ madiyya Khil ā fat The Holy Qur’ ā n makes mutual consultation (Sh ū r ā ) incumbent upon the leadership to utilize in policy making and administrative matters (3:160). The A ḥ madiyya Khil ā fat, therefore, gives utmost importance to consultation between elected leaders and competent representatives of the Community. Sh ū r ā is a vitally important process under Khil ā fat. At the same time, the members of the Community are fully trained to listen and obey the final decisions made by the leadership in conjunction with obedience to the Commandments of God and those of the Prophet (may peace and blessings of All ā h be on him). The Essence of the A ḥ madiyya Khil ā fat The A ḥ madiyya Khil ā fat differs significantly from the misplaced aspirations of some Muslim groups for political and militaristic dominance over the entire world. The A ḥ madiyya Khil ā fat is nonpolitical; spiritual and religious in nature. Thus, the A ḥ mad ī s do believe in the concept of “separation of the State and the Church. ” While respecting the will of the people to adopt varying political systems that may suit them for beneficial administration of their public affairs, it does not aspire for political authority. Though the ideal Isl ā mic state calls for the head of the government to