THE ROLE OF THE ULEMA — Guidance and Reformation

indicates the power of knowledge, for engaging in jihad through knowledge is more important than doing so through arms. This principle does not indicate any opposition between religion and politics, but, rather, a division of the arenas of activity among the believers. This division is fully in accordance with the shariah. In Islam, the religion for men and women is the same. Men and women are identical in terms of being addressees of the faith. However, their arenas of activity have been separated. Women are charged with the responsibility of nurturing future generations, while maintaining and providing for their families is the responsibility of the men. In the same manner, even among men there are differences in terms of their respective arenas of activity. One such difference, that Islam makes is between the arena of activity of scholars, on one hand, and political leaders, on the other. Their respective arenas have been kept separate and distinct. Scholars have the responsibility of being guides and teachers of the people so that the latter do not go astray. Scholars have the responsibility of being guides and teachers of the people so that the latter do not go astray. As far as practical politics are concerned, those who engage in this field must possess the necessary skills. Not everyone can shoulder this responsibility. It was on the basis of the recognition of this difference among people in terms of their capabilities that the Prophet indicated to the ummah that after him they should appoint Abu Bakr as their leader; while on the other hand, he advised Abu Dharr al-Ghifari, Abu Hurairah and Hasan ibn Thabit never to accept any political position. Due to their in-born qualities, some people are more suitable for occupying official posts than others. According to Islam, the political field should be given over to those who possess the requisite political skills and capabilities, while others should engage in various other fields that are also necessary for the community. Accordingly, while politicians are charged with the task of administering and organizing the people, scholars have the responsibility of providing the people with the knowledge that they need. This distinction between the activity of politicians and scholars is made clearer in the Hadith. The Hadith texts record numerous traditions that