Power

Moten, Abdul Rashid (2014) Power. In: The Oxford Encylopedia of Islam and Politics. Islam and Politics, 1 (1). Oxford University Press, New York, pp. 284-286. ISBN 978-0-19-973935-6

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Abstract

Power, defined as the ability to make someone do something which he or she otherwise would not do, plays a central role in Islam. Power is essential to maintain order and progress in the society (Qurʾān 4:59, 43:32). The Qurʾān states categorically that power can be exercised for the good of a person or the society, just as it can be used to create and perpetuate injustice, oppression, and stagnation (6:123, 20:24, 27:34, 33:67, 34:34, 43:23–24, etc.). The Qurʾān abhors the abuse of power and enjoins the believers to use power for the good of the self and the society. Power could be used as an end in itself, just as it can be used as a means to an end. In Islam, the emphasis has always been to use power as a means to earn the pleasure of Almighty Allāh. Power must not be used for aggression.

Item Type:	Book Chapter
Additional Information:	1667/44173
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Power, Prophethood, State
Subjects:	J Political Science > JA Political science (General) J Political Science > JL Political institutions (America except United States)
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Political Science
Depositing User:	Professor Abdul Rashid Moten
Date Deposited:	28 Oct 2015 15:06
Last Modified:	28 Oct 2015 15:06
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/44173

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