Features of Political Administration Of The Prophet (S.A.W) SS2 Islamic Studies Lesson Note

Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) was not only a religious leader but also a skilled political leader. After moving from Makkah to Madinah, he built a new community and created a system of government. His way of leading people shows many important lessons that are still useful today. This lesson will look at the main features of how Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) ran his government.

Justice for All

One of the most important parts of Prophet Muhammad’s leadership was justice. He made sure everyone was treated fairly, no matter if they were rich or poor, Muslim or non-Muslim. The Prophet (S.A.W) said, “An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab.” This shows how he believed in treating everyone equally.

When making decisions, the Prophet (S.A.W) did not favor his friends or family. Once, when a woman from a respected family stole something, some people wanted her to avoid punishment because of her family name. The Prophet (S.A.W) said that even if his own daughter Fatimah had stolen, she would face the same punishment as anyone else.

Consultation (Shura)

The Prophet (S.A.W) did not make all decisions by himself. He often asked his companions for their ideas and opinions. This system is called “Shura” or consultation. Before making big decisions, he would gather his trusted advisors and listen to what they had to say.

For example, before the Battle of Uhud, the Prophet (S.A.W) preferred to stay in Madinah, but most of his companions wanted to go out to fight. He followed their advice, even though it was different from his own idea. This shows that he valued the input of others and did not act like a dictator.

Peace and Diplomacy

Whenever possible, the Prophet (S.A.W) chose peace over war. He believed in solving problems by talking and making agreements. The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah is a good example of this. Even though some Muslims thought the terms of the treaty were not in their favor, the Prophet (S.A.W) accepted them because he knew peace would bring more benefits in the long run.

The Prophet (S.A.W) also sent letters to leaders of other countries, inviting them to Islam but not forcing them. He respected their positions and followed proper diplomatic ways when dealing with them.

Constitution of Madinah

One of the most remarkable achievements of the Prophet’s political leadership was the Constitution of Madinah. This was the first written constitution in the world. It set rules for how different groups in Madinah would live together, including Muslims and Jewish tribes.

The constitution gave rights to all people living in Madinah. It protected freedom of religion and made all groups responsible for defending the city together. This document shows how the Prophet (S.A.W) created a system where people of different faiths could live together in peace.

Simple Living

Despite being the leader of a growing state, the Prophet (S.A.W) lived very simply. He did not build grand palaces or wear fancy clothes. His house was modest, and sometimes he would go hungry while making sure others had food.

This simple lifestyle showed that he was not interested in wealth or luxury. It also made him more connected to the common people, who could see that their leader understood their struggles.

Welfare System

The Prophet (S.A.W) set up a system to help poor and needy people. This was based on Zakat (charity) that Muslims had to give. This money was used to help orphans, widows, and others who could not support themselves.

He also made sure that non-Muslims who could not work were supported from the public treasury. This welfare system showed that the Prophet’s government cared for all its citizens and tried to reduce poverty.

Accountability

The Prophet (S.A.W) believed that leaders must answer for their actions. He told his governors and officials that they would have to explain how they used their power on the Day of Judgment.

He once said, “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you will be asked about your flock.” This means that anyone with responsibility over others must take care of them properly and will be held accountable.

Religious Freedom

The Prophet (S.A.W) allowed non-Muslims to practice their own religions. He did not force Jews or Christians to become Muslims. In his agreement with the Christians of Najran, he promised that their churches would be protected.

This respect for other religions was unusual for that time in history when most rulers forced their subjects to follow the official religion.

Conclusion

The political administration of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) was based on justice, consultation, peace, welfare, accountability, and respect for human rights. These principles created a society where people could live together peacefully despite their differences.

Many of these features were far ahead of their time. Even today, more than 1400 years later, governments around the world can learn important lessons from how the Prophet (S.A.W) led his community. His example shows that good leadership means serving people, not seeking power for oneself.