All the Sultan's Men

by Jalal Al-Din Al-Suyuti, Talut Dawood (Translation)

"All the Sultan's Men" is a translation of Imam al-Suyuti's text “Ma Rawahu al-Asatin fi 'Adami al-Maji'i ila al-Salatin”. As indicated by the title, it argues and establishes the blameworthy nature of scholars associating with rulers. Since the age of early Muslims when the Prophetic Khilafah ended and the era of Muslim kings and empires began, scholars have wrestled with the nature of the relationship between the ulema-class and rulers. Some of our most illustrious Imams, such as Imam Abu Hanifah & Imam Malik, refused official appointments from rulers. Moreover, they refused to visit them in their courts. Others such as Qadi Abu Yusuf - the student of Imam Abu Hanifah - accepted official appointments. Such disparity in the way of dealing with the rulers was echoed throughout the time of the Tabi'in. Some scholars accepted appointments, while others criticized them and refused such an association.Nonetheless, both scholar and layman require guidance on the correct measures to take in times of confusion. One may wonder, "When is it acceptable for a scholar to accept an appointment?" Or "When is it appropriate for a scholar to avoid politics altogether?" Others may ask, "Is there a middle ground between the two opinions?" Such questions require in-depth answers. Although this text is only an introduction to the subject, it provides clear guidance on what kinds of interactions with the rulers are blameworthy for scholars, and why.

80 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2021

Reviews

[Miroku Nemeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brief, as many of Iman As-Suyuti's works often are, but powerful, as Imam As-Suyuti's works always are.

A poignant warning of the dangers when religious leaders mix with rulers, kings, emirs, etc. Extremely important in a time when the UAE Fatwa Council helped arrange normalization with Israel for the UAE that has set up the conditions for a genocide against the Palestinian people today, with UAE support. And only one member of the fatwa council left on principle. The rest showed at least their tacit agreement and seem to be unable to condemn Israel or its allies clearly even now as the death toll reaches 26,000.