Politics in Islam Series (6): If Islam Governs the Smallest Details, How Can Politics Be Excluded?

 Islam’s Comprehensive Approach to Life

Islam is not merely a religion confined to rituals or spiritual practices; it is a complete way of life. It guides Muslims in every moment, from waking up in the morning to sleeping at night. This comprehensive nature ensures that every action, no matter how small, aligns with the purpose of worshiping Allah (‘Ibadah).

Historical Context: A Faith That Touches All Aspects of Life

From the early days of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught his followers that no action is too insignificant to be connected to Allah. He instructed Muslims to:

• Recite specific supplications when waking up, eating, dressing, or traveling.
• Observe guidelines for personal hygiene and cleanliness, such as making wudu’ and saying du‘a when entering or exiting the restroom.
• Maintain proper etiquette in social interactions, like greeting others with peace (As-salamu Alaikum).

This meticulous attention to detail exemplifies the all-encompassing nature of Islam, ensuring that every part of life reflects obedience to Allah.

Islamic Perspective: Islam’s Holistic Vision

If Islam provides guidance for the seemingly minor aspects of life, like what to say when entering the bathroom or putting on clothes, can it neglect a matter as significant as politics? Politics involves leadership, governance, and decisions that affect the lives of millions—how could Islam leave such critical responsibilities to systems unaligned with divine guidance?

The Qur’an and Sunnah address political matters explicitly:

• Leadership: 

  “Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:58)

  Governance is seen as a trust, requiring rulers to adhere to justice and fairness under Allah’s law.

• Justice and Legislation: 

  “And judge between them by what Allah has revealed and do not follow their desires.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:48)

  Political systems must be based on divine revelation, not human whims.

• Economics:
  The prohibition of riba (usury) and the obligation of Zakat are economic commands that require political enforcement.

Example: Islam’s Attention to the “Smallest Details”

Islam governs even the most personal aspects of life:

1. Morning Du‘a:
   Upon waking, Muslims say:

   “Praise be to Allah who gave us life after He caused us to die, and to Him is the resurrection.”

   This establishes gratitude and awareness of life’s purpose from the first moment of the day.

2. Hygiene and Cleanliness:
   Before entering the restroom, Muslims say:

   “O Allah, I seek refuge in You from male and female devils.”

   After leaving, they say:
   

   “I ask for Your forgiveness.”

    These guidelines instill mindfulness and discipline in even the most mundane acts.

3. Daily Activities:

   • Eating: Muslims say “Bismillah” before eating and “Alhamdulillah” after finishing.
   • Traveling: There are supplications for riding vehicles, emphasizing reliance on Allah during journeys.

If Islam governs these acts with such precision, it is unimaginable that it would leave matters like governance, justice, or the distribution of resources to human whims.

Comparison: Secular Systems vs. Islam’s Holistic Approach

In secular systems, religion is confined to personal or spiritual matters, leaving politics to human ideologies. This division leads to:

• Corruption and injustice due to the absence of divine accountability.
• Disconnection between spiritual values and societal governance.
• Policies that contradict ethical and moral principles.

Islam, however, integrates spirituality, morality, and governance, ensuring that all aspects of life work harmoniously under Allah’s guidance.

Modern Times: The Need for Islam in Politics

In today’s world, many Muslims struggle to practice their faith due to secular political systems. Examples include:

• Restrictions on religious expression, such as bans on the Azan or Islamic attire.
• Economic systems based on riba, leading to inequality and financial crises.
• Lack of justice and accountability in governance, resulting in oppression and exploitation.

By applying Islam’s comprehensive teachings to politics, we can create societies where justice, morality, and spirituality thrive.

Conclusion: A Religion That Guides All Cannot Ignore Politics

Islam’s meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of life demonstrates its divine origin. If Allah has provided guidance for the smallest actions, it is inconceivable that He would leave politics—an area that profoundly affects human lives—unguided.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) established the first Islamic state in Madinah, proving that Islam’s teachings extend beyond personal worship to governance and societal organization. As Muslims, we must recognize that separating Islam from politics contradicts its very essence.

In the next article, we will delve deeper into the Shari’a perspective on this matter, exploring why Islam’s political vision is essential for humanity’s success.