By Farida Hakim

Many so-called Muslim nations are much in the news today because of anti-Muslim behavior by their leaders. A truly Muslim nation would not be a dictatorship or a monarchy. It would be a nation where its people, male and female equally, would be free to practice a code of ethics exemplified by the noblest standards of Prophet Mohammed.

The Prophet was fully aware that ideas should be translated into practical action, and ties based on faith should have practical manifestations. This model Muslim community was established in Madina and the citizens imbibed the practices of Prophet Muhammad in every aspect of their daily lives by loving for others what they loved for themselves. Muslims and non-muslims lived together in harmony and practiced their community values of caring and sharing through love and compassion.

The political system of Islam is based on sound spiritual and moral values guided by divine instructions. It administered justice by providing security for all citizens regardless of color, race or creed. The leaders are chosen from among the best qualified citizens based on their own merits of virtue and competence and not on racial origin, family prestige or financial status. After the people make their choice by election or selection of the ruler, every person is obligated to supervise the conduct of the administration and question the way the public affairs is administered. If the administration betrays the trust given to them, they are replaced. The highest level of faith in action was to encourage what is right and forbid what is wrong. Mutual consultation is the fundamental principle of government. A citizen has the right to support or oppose any government policy.

There is no hereditary power or lifetime government in a truly Islamic state. Islamic history of early rulers is replete of how the initial leaders were questioned, corrected and advised by men and women alike. The first elected Caliph said, “If I do any good, give me your support. If I go wrong, set me right.

Historian Michael H. Hart’s book lists Prophet Muhammad as the most influential man in History since he is the only man to have been both a founder of a major world religion and a major military/political leader. He left a leadership legacy which is relevant to follow in today’s world.

Farida Hakim lives in Bellevue