The Reality of Khilafah — Page 63
C H AP T E R ON E—K HIL C H AP T E R ON E—K HIL A A FAH FAH 63 passions prevent him from seeing the truth; hence, he does not try to seek knowledge as the fortunate ones do. As for a s - S idd i q, he was always seeking the munificence of Allah and looking towards God’s Messenger. Therefore, he was the most deserving of the qualities of Prophethood and most eligible to be the successor to the Best of Mankind. He was one with his leader and always in accord with him. He was the manifestation of his master in all his higher morals and in his conduct and in forsaking of the associations and the desires of the ego, so much so, that he did not waver even when attacked by swords and spears. He never faltered in the face of any calamity, intimidation, blame, or vilifica- tion. The essence of his soul was honesty, purity, steadfastness, and righteousness, such that even if the whole world turned apostate, he would not care or turn back, but would continue to march forward. For this reason, Allah has mentioned the Truthful immedi- ately after mentioning the Prophets, as He said: 1 َكِٕىٰٓلوُاَف َعَم َنْيِذَّلا َمَعْنَا ُهّٰللا ْمِهْيَلَع َنِّم َنّٖيِبَّنلا َو َنْيِقْيِّدِّصلا۠ َو ِءٓاَدَهُّشلا َو َنْيِحِلّٰصلا In this verse, there is a reference to a s - S idd i q and his excellence over others, because the Holy Prophet, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, did not call any other Companion ‘the Truthful’ except Ab u Bakr, and he did so in order to highlight his lofty status. Reflect on this, like those are wont to reflect. In this verse, seekers of the truth can find a principle regarding the sta- tions of spiritual excellence and the people who belong to them. 1. They shall be among those on whom Allah has bestowed His blessings, namely, the Prophets, the Truthful, the Martyrs, and the Righteous ( S u rah an-Nis a ’, 4:70). [Publisher]