Mukhtasar Muslim (Abridged) 1206 — If the imam fears Allah

Narrated by Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) from the Noble Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): He (peace be upon him) said: The Imam is a shield behind whom the Muslims fight (against the disbelievers), and because of whom people are protected from harm (from oppressors and robbers). Then, if he commands the fear of Allah and acts justly, he will be rewarded; and if he commands otherwise, then the burden will be upon him.