FAITH AND POLITICS

FAITH AND POLITICS Essential and Relative Aspects of Religion T HE teachings of Islam can be broadly divided into two parts— the first part is related to belief which is eternal in nature, and the other part deals with those aspects which depend on the circumstances. By its very nature, this second part is subject to change and modification. Teachings about belief are a fundamental part of religion, while those teachings that change with circumstances are a relative part of religion. Faith includes belief in monotheism, the concept of prophethood and accountability in the Hereafter. It also includes rituals of worship. Teachings which change with circumstance include politics and governance. Belief and worship are eternal. Their importance in religion is permanent. But so far as politics and government are concerned, the matter is different. The structure of government and emphasis on politics will change according to the circumstances. Islam has not made politics an article of faith. That is why it is forbidden (haram) to revolt against an established government in Islam. Islam teaches that when a government is established, no one should take rebellious action against it, but rather work in nonpolitical spheres, such as calling people to God, education and reform, while maintaining a good relationship with the government of the day. This is why there is no specific rule for the appointment of a caliph in Islam. There is no explicit guidance in the Quran in this matter. The early history of Islam is considered as a standard of reference for future. During this period, five caliphs became known as the Rightly-guided Caliphs. They were Abu Bakr, Umar Farooq, Uthman ibn Affan, Ali ibn Abi Talib and Umar ibn Abdul Aziz. As history suggests, each of these caliphs was appointed through quite different methods. This is an unambiguous proof that there is no definitive procedure for the appointment of the head of political institutions in Islam. In contrast, every political constitution in the world contains clear and comprehensive guidance on such matters. Islam teaches that when a government is established, no one should take rebellious action against it, but rather work in non-political spheres, such as calling people to God, education and reform.