Daraqutni

Abu al-Malih al-Hudhali narrates: Sayyiduna Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) wrote a letter to Sayyiduna Musa al-Ash’ari (may Allah be pleased with him) in which it was written: (To proceed!) Judgement is such an obligation that is extremely necessary and a method that must be maintained. So when evidence is presented before you, and the truth becomes clear, then implement it, and there is no benefit in discussing a right that cannot be enforced. Sit with people on a level of equality, consider them equal, so that no weak person loses hope in your justice and fairness, and no person of status expects any excess from you. The burden of proof is upon the one who makes a claim, and an oath is required from the one who denies it. It is permissible to reconcile between Muslims, except for such reconciliation that makes something unlawful lawful, or makes something lawful unlawful. The next day, while making a decision, do not let it hinder you that you have reconsidered it and have understood a new solution to the issue. The reason is that you must return to the truth; the truth is ancient, and returning to the truth is better than persisting in falsehood. Use understanding in every matter about which you have doubt, and regarding which no ruling from the Book or the Sunnah has reached you; in such a case, consider similar cases and use analogy in rulings, and give preference to that which seems more beloved to Allah Almighty and more similar to the truth, according to your opinion. If the person who has made a claim asks for time to present evidence, then grant him time to present evidence, and if evidence is presented, then decide according to his right; if not, then decide against that person. The reason is that this situation has become clear even to a blind person and is more eloquent in terms of excuse. Every Muslim is just; they are related to one another, except for the person who has been flogged as a punishment for a hadd crime, or the person who is known to give false testimony, or about whom it is suspected that he is giving false testimony due to being a guardian or due to kinship—so be mindful of that. The reason is that the inner matters belong to Allah Almighty, but on the basis of evidence, the punishment will be removed from you. And yes, avoid troubling people and causing them distress, and avoid disputing over the truth regarding such a place, as a result of which Allah Almighty will make the reward obligatory; this will become a treasure for you in the Hereafter. The reason is that in the matter between Allah Almighty and the servant, whoever’s intention is correct, even if that thing is against himself, Allah Almighty will protect that person from harm from people, and whoever is adorned in the eyes of people, but Allah Almighty’s knowledge about him is different, then Allah Almighty will disgrace that person. So why should you seek reward from anyone other than Allah Almighty? While Allah Almighty grants immediate sustenance and also grants the treasures of His mercy, and peace be upon you.