شوریٰ کے متعلق الماوردی اور ابنِ تیمیہ کے افکار و نظریات کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ

An Analytical Study of the Thoughts and Theories of Al-Mawardi and Ibn Taymiyyah on Shura

Abstract

This paper presents an analytical study of the concepts of Shura as articulated by two classical Muslim scholars, Al-Mawardi and Ibn Taymiyyah, and evaluates their relevance for contemporary Islamic governance. Shura, or consultative decision-making, is a foundational principle in Islam. However, its institutional application remains a central debate in modern Muslim polities. By examining the primary works of Al-Mawardi, particularly Al-Ahkam al-Sultaniyyah, and the political treatises of Ibn Taymiyyah, this study compares their theoretical frameworks, conditions, and objectives for Shura.The study finds that Al-Mawardi institutionalized Shura within the framework of the Caliphate. He argued that for Shura to be effective and balanced, the selection of advisors must be based strictly on merit. He rejected criteria such as kinship, tribal affiliation, or fame, and instead emphasized knowledge, integrity, and wisdom as the essential qualifications for Ahl al-Shura. For Al-Mawardi, the Caliph’s authority was legitimized through his role as Imam, and Shura functioned as a mechanism to ensure competent counsel in both administrative and ethical matters.In contrast, Ibn Taymiyyah emphasized Shura as a binding constitutional principle that limits autocratic rule. He maintained that the Imam or ruler must be selected by Ahl al-Hall wal-Aqd, a group of qualified Muslims capable of judging according to the Qur’an and Sunnah. He explicitly rejected the concentration of decision.

The thoughts and theories of Al-Mawardi and Ibn Taymiyyah present a comprehensive framework of Islamic political thought, jurisprudence, social reform, and fundamental principles, which retain their significance in every era. Al-Mawardi and Ibn Taymiyyah are counted among the great Muslim scholars whose ideas had a profound impact on Islamic history. In the context of modern times, it is very necessary to understand their ideas and apply them so that we can adopt their fundamental thoughts in today’s world.