Effective Leadership in Islām: An Exploration

Abstract

Using a historical research method drawing on the Qur'ān, Hadīth and relevant Islamic sources, this study examines the qualities of effective leadership from an Islamic perspective. It finds that Khilāfah originates from Allah and is entrusted to humankind as an amānah, that leadership is a form of service requiring fairness and social justice in line with divine revelation, and that responsibility is shared across society rather than confined to a select few. The paper recommends the integration of principles such as Muhāsabah (accountability), Taqwā (God-consciousness), Shūrā (consultation) and ʿAdl (justice) as essential strategies for contemporary leadership challenges.