A Historical Example

A Historical Example underling and the target was the ruler. When a ruler listens to criticism by his servant, his ego is affected. The religious people as well as others may fail to control themselves, but the Sultan, the ruler controlled himself although he had greatly disliked this criticism. But he did not utter a word in the mosque and left the mosque quietly. When he reached home, the Sultan said to his elder son, Al-Hakam, “Today Qazi Munzir has hurt me greatly. Now I have decided never to say my prayers behind him.” Al-Hakam said: “Whether Qazi Munzir is the Imam or not, since you have appointed him, it is in your power to depose him and replace him with another Imam, who does not dare to make such insolent remarks.” On hearing this, the Sultan became angry. He scolded his son and said: “Woe to you, is it possible for one who is in error (referring to himself) to dispose a virtuous man like Qazi Munzir who has so many qualities, just for his own happiness? This can never happen.” “Since I was hurt by his harsh words, I have decided not to say my prayers behind him. Now it is my desire that I should atone for this oath that I have taken never to say my prayers behind him. Indeed, Qazi Munzir in our lifetime, and in his lifetime will keep leading the prayer.” Therefore, Qazi Munzir continued to lead the Friday prayer even after the death of Abdur Rehman An-Nasir, his son did not depose him either. (Tarikh Quzaat al-Andalus, p.70) The above-mentioned incident has a great lesson in it. It shows what qualities are desirable for a person if he has to pray to God so that He accepts his prayer.