Islam, a true religion of peace and
humanity, unfortunately is now being considered a root cause behind undemocratic
practices prevailing in Islamic states. The major reason behind such
misconception is misunderstanding and absolutely wrong analysis of Islamic
political values. While discussing the topic of Islam and democracy people often
take extreme positions; some present Islamic political system as an antithesis
of democracy, while others emphasize that both Islam and democracy are two
different terms implying same thing as John Esposito and John Voll argued in
their recent book 'Islam and Democracy' that both are compatible with each
other. But the real picture is different from both viewpoints. Therefore before
taking sides of either group one must have complete understanding of some
important concepts regarding the place of democracy in Islam.
The Concept
of Sovereignty in Islam
The basis of Islamic political system is an
absolute belief in the sovereignty of Allah, the real law giver. No one, even a
prophet can order others in his own right. The Prophet himself is subjected to
Allah's commands. As Holy Prophet (PBUH) said, "I do not follow anything except
what is revealed to me". For man Islam uses the term "Vicegerency" (Khilafat)
instead of "sovereignty". Anyone selected as vicegerent uses the power as the
trust from Allah and is answerable before Him for every action he takes under
these powers.
Decision Making Process in Islamic Polity
In Islam
'Shura' is the only decision making and implementing body. The role of Shura is
often compared with the role of parliament in modern democracy but the main
deference between two is the concept of real law giver. In Islam only Allah
Almighty is the real law giver to Whom the authority of legislation vests. Man
has no authority to modify the prescribed limits and cannot resort to
independent legislation. He has to take all decision within the prescribed
framework according to rules of Allah not by the choice of people. Such
limitations are placed just to prevent exploitation of man in the name of
majority vote and to evolve a well balanced system of social justice under which
political powers can be used to eradicate elements causing insecurities and
uncertainties among people.
Principle of Equality in Islam
Islam
presents an egalitarian social structure according to which all human beings are
equal before Allah; no one is superior to another on the account of his social
status, family background, caste or profession. The only criterion of
superiority is personal aptitude and noble character. The Holy Prophet (PBUH)
asserted this reality on many occasions. Some of those assertions are given
here:
"No one is superior to another except in point of faith and piety.
All men are descended from Adam and Adam was made of clay. "
If you need more comprehensive explanation about Islam you can go to Kisah Islami.
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