Just some thoughts

I was just doing some background reading for an article the other day and I came across some very interesting pieces of advice from the first 4 khalifas of Islam; Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman and Ali. I havnt been able to forget them and keep thinking about them, and the inherent wisdom and Iman in these statements. The beauty in the simplicity of their iman and ideals. I thought it would be nice to share with you what I read, because knowledge should be shared, and I feel this is definately worth sharing.Abu Bakr was a very rich man when he became Muslim but lived a simple, pious and upright life. He was a true servant of Allah and a meticulous follower of the Prophet (SAW). His advice to his army, and hence the rest of us Muslims, was:

1. Always fear Allah; He knows what is in mens hearts
2. Be kind to those who are under you and treat them well
3. Give brief directions, directions that are too long are likely to be forgotten
4. Improve your own conduct before asking others to improve theirs
5. Always speak the truth so that you get the right advice
6. Consult your men when you are free to do so; this will develop participation
7. Be sincere to all with whom you deal
8. Give up cowardice and dishonesty
9. Give up bad company.

Now, I know some sound military but once you think about it, it all applies to life itself. I have never been part of an army and cannot anticipate ever being part of one really, but these pieces of advice are applicable to my life aswell.
There is such simplicity in these pieces of advice, and so they show their wisdom - a lifetimes worth of knowledge and understanding of Islam is in this advice.

I can only make dua that one day I too will have such a deep and stong understanding and link to Islam.

Next I shall do Umar (whom I have to confess is my favourite Khalifah!).

Let me know what your thoughts are on this particular post. If the comment box is empty I shall assume (a) no on reads my blog (lol) or (b) no one thinks anything at all.....!