Post by Islamic Revival on Oct 14, 2004 2:22:28 GMT -5
Sa’id in his pre-Islamic days had witnessed the slaughter of Khubayb ibn Adiy and it had a profound effect upon him, so much in fact that on deep reflection it helped him come to Islam.
As a Muslim he gained a strong reputation for honesty and piety. He was well trusted. Sa’id once came to Khaleefah Umar ibn al Khattab at the beginning of his authority and said:
“I call you to fear Allah in dealing with people and do not fear people in your relationship with Allah. Let not your actions deviate from your words for the best of speech is that which is confirmed by action. Consider those who have been appointed over the affairs of Muslims, far and near. Like for them what you like for yourself and your family and dislike for them what you would dislike for yourself and your family. Surmount any obstacle to attain the truth and do not fear the criticisms of those who criticise in matter prescribed by Allah”<br>
Umar responded: “Who can measure up to this, Sa’id?”<br>“A man like yourself from among those whom Allah has appointed over the affairs of the Ummah of Muhammad (saw) and who feels responsible to Allah alone” Sa’id responded.
Sa’id was later appointed responsible as the Wali (governor) of Homs (in Syria). His unselfish concern to look after the affairs of the people overshadowed any concern for the worldly goods of life. So much so that when Umar once asked a delegation that he had sent for the names of the poor of Homs, Sa’id’s name was included within the list!
Sa’id was once was accused by some of the people he ruled that he did not help them in the morning or evening and that one day per month he did not appear at all. In response Sa’id reluctantly informed the Khaleefah that every morning he bakes bread for his family, that the day is given to the affairs of the people and that he commits the evening to the worship of Allah. Regarding the one day per month in which he didn’t appear – he used to wash his one and only garment on that day and go out to see the people when it was dry. On more than one occasion when the Khaleefah sent Sa’id additional funds to alleviate his poverty Sa’id and his wife chose instead to help the poor of the community with the funds received.
Whilst a life as spartan as that led by Sa’id ibn Aamir al-Jumahi is not a pre-requisite for any ruler looking after the affairs of the people. Scrupulous honesty and concern for the people above oneself certainly is, and is a salutary reminder of the depths to which the tyrants ruling over us today have declined.
From www.ramadhan.org