Amanah as the Foundation of Islamic Governance: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives
Keywords:
Islamic Governance, Amanah, Khulafa-e-Rashideen, Political SystemAbstract
The concept of Amanah (trust) forms the ethical foundation of Islamic governance. It defines the responsibilities individuals owe to Allah, to society, and to positions of authority. Rooted in the Qur’an and the Sunnah, Amanah serves as a guiding principle for justice, leadership accountability, and the protection of public rights. Historically, Islamic polities such as the Madinan State and the period of the Khulafa-e-Rashideen demonstrated practical governance models built upon transparency, equity, and public welfare. In the contemporary world, where corruption, abuse of power, and institutional weaknesses challenge many societies, the revival of Amanah provides a moral framework for effective and ethical governance. This article examines the historical evolution of Amanah and its continued relevance in modern political systems, proposing that trust-based governance is essential for stability, prosperity, and social harmony.
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