Politics in the Administrative Structure of the Jama‘at

Some people will immediately be startled when hearing the words “Siyasat [politics] of the Jama‘at” and would be curious as to what this infers. What does the term siyasat [politics] mean in this context? In our general use of the word, we refer to “politics” in a negative connotation. This is partly caused by politicians who have caused the word “politics” to hold a terrible reputation. It has come to signify causing havoc, damage, harm or to not work in an honest manner. In truth the lexicons describe the word “politics” to mean properly administering a system. Another meaning is to employ reason and wisdom when implementing something, to ensure a system is in place to prevent evil is another connotation, to use reason and wisdom to carry out something, and to have the ability to solve international matters in the correct manner are included in the connotation of “politics”.

In short, this word holds all manners of positive meanings, however as I have said, regrettably we have forgotten its true meanings due to the misconduct of politicians and instead derive negative meanings from this word due to our misdeeds. In any case, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) used the word ‘politics’ for its positive connotations here. It signifies the wisdom, understanding, intelligence, acumen and capabilities required to properly operate a system.

Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) further says:

“Since the nizam [administrative structure of the Jama‘at] is closely associated with the implementation of Jama‘at principles, that is why one of the foremost attributes of the Khulafa is that they uphold and implement the administration.”

Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) then further elaborates:

“At the same time, it is necessary that they ensure the establishment of faith and to spread its understanding.” The Khalifa is responsible for running the administration of the Jama‘at as well as ensuring the principles that strengthen and establish the faith are implemented. For this reason, where God Almighty has mentioned the institution of Khilafat in the Holy Quran, He has stated the following:

وَلَیُمَکِّنَنَّ لَھُمْ دِیْنَھُمُ الَّذِی ارْتَضٰی لَھُمْ

That is God Almighty will surely establish for them their faith and ensure it prevails throughout the world. Thus, the manner in which the faith is presented by the Khulafa is safeguarded by God Almighty, however this is Hifazat-e-Sughrah.”