Ibnu Taimiyah and Qurais Shihab's Views on the Law of Electing Non-Muslim Leaders: A Comparative Study

Abstract

This article discusses the legal perspectives on electing non-Muslim leaders according to two prominent scholars, Ibn Taimiyyah and Qurais Shihab. The selection of leaders in Islam is a significant and complex issue, influenced by various interpretations and socio-political contexts. Ibn Taimiyyah, a classical scholar, emphasizes the importance of a leader's faith and piety, as well as their ability to uphold Islamic law (Sharia). According to him, a leader must be a Muslim who can safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim community. On the other hand, Qurais Shihab, a contemporary intellectual, offers a more contextual and inclusive view. He highlights universal values such as justice, welfare, and public interest. Shihab acknowledges that in modern socio-political contexts and pluralism, a non-Muslim leader can be acceptable if they can ensure justice and the well-being of society. This article aims to outline the fundamental differences between these two perspectives and their implications in the context of national and state life in the modern era. Thus, it is expected to provide a comprehensive understanding of this issue for academics, practitioners, and the general public.