Early Islamic governments

The term caliphate refers to the first system of government established by Muhammad in 622 CE, under the Constitution of Medina. It represented the political unity of the Muslim Ummah (nation), although it did not always incorporate the full religious community of Muslims (for example, Khawarijites and Shia). It was subsequently led by Muhammad's disciples who were known as the Rightly Guided (Rashidun ) Caliphs (632-661 CE). The Arabian Empire significantly expanded under the Umayyad Caliphate (661-750) and the Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258). The Essence of Islamic governments The essence or guiding principles of an Islamic government or Islamic state, is the concept of Al-Shura . Different scholars have different understandings or thoughts, with regard to the concept al-Shura. However, most Muslim scholars are of the opinion that Islamic al-Shura should consist of: [1] Meeting or consultation, that follows the teachings of Islam. Consultation following the guidelines of the Quran and Sunnah. There is a leader elected among them to head the meeting. The discussion should be based on mushawarah and mudhakarah . All members are given fair opportunity to voice out their opinions. The issue should be of maslahah ammah or public interest. The voices of the majority are accepted, provided it does not violate the teachings of the Quran or Sunnah. Muhammad himself respected the decision of the shura members. He is the champion of the notion of al-Shura, and this was illustrated in one of the many historical events, such as in the Battle of Khandaq ( Battle of the Trench ), where Muhammad was faced with two decisions, i.e. to fight the invading pagan Arab armies outside of Medina or wait until they enter the city. After consultation with the sahabah (companions), it was suggested by Salman al-Farsi that it would be better if the Muslims fought the unbelievers within Medina by building a big ditch on the northern periphery of Medina to prevent the enemies from entering Medina. This idea was later supported by the majority of the sahabah, and thereafter Muhammad also approved it. The reason why Muhammad placed great emphasis on the agreement of the decision of the shura was because the majority of opinion (by the sahabah) is better than the decision made by one individual.