An Exposition of Some Criticisms Against Khilafat-e-Rashida — Page 34
34 IV. Demands of Abdication The fourth criticism against Khilafat - i - Rashida is that accord ing to its principles it is beyond retrieval. In other words, if a Khalifa becomes incapable of discharging his duties he cannot be removed from the office, whereas the demands of good organisa tion require that someone more active should take his place. It should be remembered however that Khilafat is a spiritual pedestal and a blessing from God which comes into being as a result of God’s mysterious schemes and revelations in order to consummate a prophet’s mission. Therefore the question of abdication is irrelevant. These blessings do not disappear with the physical incapability of a Khalifa or through his age or incapacity. The Holy Prophet, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, instruc ted Osman not to cast away the robe of Khilafat, which God shall bestow up on him, under any pressure from people, and Osman who knew the true value of the office, the importance which the Holy Prophet attached to it, and the dignity which was conferred up on it by God, held steadfast against the demands for his abdication until he lost his life. There is indeed no logic in their abdication and the only way they can leave their office is through their death. Maulana Hakim Nur - ud - Din, the first Khalifa to the Promised Messiah once declared: “Remember, it is not within your power to set me aside. If you find any fault in me, invite my attention to it, but