An Exposition of Some Criticisms Against Khilafat-e-Rashida — Page 20
20 III. Elected by People and C hosen by God The third criticism of Khilafat - i - Rashida from the so - called democrats is that how can an elected Khalifa be regarded as having been chosen by God? As is known, after the demise of the Holy Prophet, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him , his companions gathered together at Banu Saida’s place and elected Abu Bakr as the first Khalifa after considerable discussion. For the Khilafat of Omar, Abu Bakr had various consultations with appropriate people, and similarly the third and the fourth Kha lifas came to their offices through various electoral methods. To say therefore that they were chosen by God is, for opponents, very difficult to understand. Indirect Selection by God There is no doubt about the accuracy of the argument but we must not forget that the result of elections is in fact indirect selection by God who manipulates the minds of electors to accord with His wishes. It is for this reason that the Holy Prophet, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, has directed his followers not only to follow his own footsteps but also those of Rashid Khalifas who are duly guided by God. Had their election not had the approval of God, the Holy Prophet would certainly