matter is that Allah has ordained that the task entrustedearlier to the Prophets and Apostles will be accomplished
by the followers of the last Prophet [s].
The rule of the first four Khilafah Ar-Rashidah, 'The Rightly Guided Khilafah', isKhulafa' (Caliphs) is called Al-
regarded as the golden age of Islam. In their persons theywere the best examples of Islam in practice and in their
political rule they were guided by the teachings of theQur'anand the Sunnahof the Messenger [s] of Allah. Many
later Muslim rulers followed the example of the and their rule contributed to many great achievements butKhulafa'
they could never reach the moral and religious standards ofthis early period of the rule of the four Khulafa'.
Islamic history has seen many remarkable rulers and hasrecorded their great achievements. Their greatness of char-
acter though is judged by the standards of how closely theyfollowed the personal life and social responsibilities of
these earliest of Muslim rulers.
There are many special characteristics of this period thatmakes it so unique not only in the history of Islam but the
history of the world. The greatness of the period is, in fact,due to the unique character of these Khulafa'. They were
specially trained for the task of leadership by the HolyProphet [s]. They had developed in their persons the same
characteristics of simplicity, sincerity and piety as HolyProphet Muhammad [s] himself. They were modest and
kind in their personal relations and strong and courageousin battle. They led very modest lives but were most gener-
ous in helping the cause of Islam and coming to the aid ofthe needy. They were equally fair and just in their dealings
with others. Because of their sacrifices and sincerity theyhad the trust of the 'Ummah. They loved the Messenger [s],
were faithful to his message, and were prepared to die forIslam and the well-being of the 'Ummah.
The life and example of that to build a true Islamic society we must first build ourAl-Khulafa' Ar-Rashidunshows us
Islamic character. Islam is not something to be preached toothers, but a way of life to be first practiced by those who
profess the religion. A true Muslim is one who follows theQur'an, the Sunnah, the example of Sahabah and other
pious ancestors and inspires others by his noble example,and not one who expects others to practice what he as a
Muslim believes.fh
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