Hafiz Muhammad Ameen
(1) The relevance of the hadith to the chapter is as follows: It is legislated for an imam or ruler to appoint a good, competent, and sincere minister so that he may assist and support the leader in important matters of governance and lighten some of the burdens of leadership from him.
(2) Upon some leaders and rulers, Allah Ta'ala bestows special grace, favor, and mercy, granting them true, pure, sincere, and upright ministers who are devoted helpers, well-wishers, and supporters. If the leader or imam forgets any important matter, they remind him, and if he remembers, they assist him in that regard.
(3) A leader or ruler should never be absolutely autocratic, making arbitrary decisions without anyone’s counsel or advice, preferring only his own opinion and desires, considering himself all-wise, and ruling according to his own will and politics. Acting in this way leads to the loss and violation of many rights of the subjects. Rather, the leader or ruler should adopt trustworthy and honest, religiously committed, sound-minded, practical, insightful, and upright ministers and advisors who guide him with good counsel and positive abilities. This matter is so important and serious that the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam), who possessed all the highest and most excellent human perfections, was the king of intelligence, acumen, nobility, and honor, and who was also supported by divine revelation, despite all this, was commanded by Allah with the order: “And consult them in the matter” [Qur’an], making consultation obligatory for him. After this, there remains no room for any further discussion regarding the importance of this issue.
(4) “Wazir” is an Arabic word meaning “one who bears a burden.” By it is meant a companion and helper. A good companion and helper is also a blessing from Allah Ta'ala—not only for the ruler, but for every person in a position of responsibility, even for a husband, a good wife is included in this.
Source: Sunan Nasa'i: Translation and Benefits by Shaykh Hafiz Muhammad Amin Hafizullah, Page: 4209
Shaykh Umar Farooq Saeedi
Benefits and Issues:
Islam gradually established such a system for running the affairs of the state that, in terms of administration and management, was an exemplary model.
In fulfilling major responsibilities, only by including suitable individuals—those who are best in capability and sincerity—can administrative matters be properly managed.
The Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) declared sincerity, goodwill, and responsibility as fundamental characteristics for the official machinery.
Whereas irresponsibility, negligence in official duties, and lack of goodwill have been described as causes of destruction.
Therefore, it is necessary for the ruler to select ministers for himself,
but such ministers who are trustworthy in faith, deeds, honesty, and piety.
And upon attaining such individuals, one should thank Allah.
And one should avoid bad companions and seek Allah’s protection from them.
History bears witness that only those governments have been successful and triumphant
in which the ministers or advisors were wise, perceptive, and trustworthy.
And those governments in which the ministers and advisors were foolish and treacherous became a lesson for others.
Source: Sunan Abu Dawood – Commentary by Shaykh Umar Farooq Saeedi, Page: 2932