wisdom

Babur was the first ruler of the Mughal empire, and while doing some research on the Mughals at work, I came across this:

According to the document available in the State Library of Bhopal, Babur left the following will to Humayun:

"My son take note of the following: Do not harbour religious prejudice in your heart. You should dispense justice while taking note of the people's religious sensitivities, and rites. Avoid slaughtering cows in order that you could gain a place in the heart of natives. This will take you nearer to the people.

Do not demolish or damage places of worship of any faith and dispense full justice to all to ensure peace in the country. Islam can better be preached by the sword of love and affection, rather than the sword of tyranny and persecution. Avoid the differences between the shias and sunnis. Look at the various characteristics of your people just as characteristics of various seasons."

I dont know why, or how, but this is an inspiring will. The legacy of a man, a Muslim, ruling a majority non-Muslim nation. I read this and I see the tolerance and the patience within the man - and I cant help but think, where are the Muslim leaders who think and feel Islam like this today? Who understand that Islam is peace?

This is leadership. This tolerance, and patience and not only that but the holistic understanding of how Muslim should present himself to others.

I wish they made leaders like this nowadays. I wish we had rulers like Umar, like Ali, like Abu Bakr, like Salahuddin - now that would be FUN!