Sovereignty is the supreme power which is answerable to a state or system. In the Islamic political system, the power is only given to Allah. It implies that all the governance, decisions, and enactments have to be governed by the principles of the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In contrast to the secular political systems in which the power is vested either in the state or the people, Islam teaches that supreme power is given to Allah.
This is a very significant idea in Islam’s government. It encourages justice, equality, and morality to dominate the political landscape. This article examines the concept of Allah’s authority in Islam’s political system, why it matters, and what it is in real life.
Meaning of Sovereignty in Islam
Sovereignty in Islam is different from the modern democratic or autocratic systems. It means that:
- Allah is the Supreme Lawgiver – No one has the right to make laws that contradict divine commandments.
- The Quran and Sunnah are the Constitution – The foundation of governance is based on Islamic teachings.
- Human Authority is Limited – Rulers and governments are only administrators of divine law.
- Justice and Accountability are Essential —The government must implement policies consistent with the principles of justice and fairness.
Quranic Basis for Allah’s Sovereignty
Several Quranic verses emphasize that sovereignty belongs to Allah alone. These include:
“The decision is only for Allah. He has commanded that you worship none but Him. That is the correct religion, but most of the people do not know.” (Quran 12:40)
“To Allah belongs the sovereignty of the heavens and the earth. He gives life and causes death, and you have no protector or helper besides Him.” (Quran 9:116)
“And rule between them by what Allah has revealed, and do not follow their desires away from what has come to you of the truth.” (Quran 5:48)
These verses establish that all governance must be based on divine laws, not human desires.
Implementation of Allah’s Sovereignty in the Islamic Political System
In an Islamic political system, the sovereignty of Allah is implemented through several key mechanisms:
1. Legislation Based on Shariah
Islamic laws are derived from two main sources:
- The Quran – The primary source of guidance for all matters.
- The Sunnah – The teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
No law can be made that contradicts these sources. Any legislation passed by an Islamic government must align with divine teachings.
2. Role of the Caliphate and Leadership
The head of an Islamic state (Caliph, Emir, or President) is not an absolute ruler. He is a servant of Allah and must govern according to Islamic laws. The early Caliphs, like Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar bin Khattab (RA), ruled by consulting scholars and ensuring policies followed the Quran and Sunnah.
3. Justice and Governance
The government must ensure justice for all citizens. No leader is above the law, and every decision must be based on fairness. The Islamic judicial system ensures that rulers and common people are treated equally before the law.
Comparison with Modern Political Systems
| Aspect | Islamic Political System | Secular Political System |
|---|---|---|
| Sovereignty | Belongs to Allah | Belongs to the state or people |
| Law-Making | Based on the Quran and Sunnah | Based on human reasoning |
| Leadership | Caliph/Leader follows divine laws | Elected leaders make policies |
| Justice System | Equal treatment under Islamic law | Justice based on state laws |
| Objective | Establishing justice and morality | Protecting national interests |
This table shows that the Islamic political system ensures laws are divinely guided rather than being based on human desires.
Challenges in Implementing Allah’s Sovereignty Today
While the concept of Allah’s sovereignty is ideal, modern Muslim states face several challenges:
- Influence of Western Political Systems – Many Islamic countries have adopted secular laws that do not align with Shariah.
- Corrupt Leadership – Some rulers prioritize personal gain over Islamic governance.
- Lack of Islamic Knowledge – Many citizens and leaders are unaware of the importance of divine sovereignty in politics.
- Global Political Pressure – Western nations often influence Muslim states to adopt secular policies.
Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to revive the Islamic political system based on divine sovereignty.
Historical Examples of Allah’s Sovereignty in Action
1. Caliph Abu Bakr (632-634 CE)
Abu Bakr (RA) was the first Caliph after the Prophet (PBUH). He ruled strictly according to the Quran and Sunnah, ensuring justice and fairness in governance.
2. Caliph Umar bin Khattab (634-644 CE)
Umar (RA) expanded the Muslim empire but always prioritized justice. His governance was based on Shariah, and he made sure no ruler abused power.
3. The Ottoman Empire
The Ottomans ruled for centuries based on Islamic principles, showing how a state can function under divine sovereignty.
These examples prove that when Allah’s sovereignty is implemented, society prospers.
Benefits of Recognizing Allah’s Sovereignty
- Ensures Justice – No ruler can impose unjust laws.
- Eliminates Tyranny – Leaders are accountable under divine law.
- Promotes Moral Values – Society follows ethical principles.
- Creates Social Stability – Crime and corruption are minimized.
- Brings Blessings – A state that follows divine laws earns Allah’s favor.
Conclusion
The sovereignty of Allah is the foundation of the Islamic political system’s governance. It ensures that laws are just, rulers are accountable, and society functions based on divine laws. Though it is difficult to apply the system in the modern world, history has proven that states thrive when states obey Allah’s laws.
Muslim countries should do their best to restore Islamic rule, where their political and legal systems are based on the Quran and Sunnah. There would be justice and prosperity only then.
References:
- The Holy Quran (Surah Yusuf 12:40, Surah Al-Maidah 5:48, Surah Al-Tawbah 9:116)
- Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim (Hadith collections on governance and justice)
- Ibn Khaldun, Muqaddimah (Islamic political philosophy)
- Al-Mawardi, Al-Ahkam al-Sultaniyyah (Principles of Islamic governance)
- Historical records of the Rashidun Caliphs and the Ottoman Empire
Also read:
- CSS International Relations (IR) Notes & Study Material
- CSS Public Administration Notes & Study Material
- CSS Islamic History & Culture Notes & Study Material
- CSS All Previous Papers
- PMS Past Papers
