In fulfilling public responsibilities, two fundamental values must go hand in hand: competence and integrity. This article explores the importance of possessing both qualities, especially in the context of leadership and administration, by highlighting exemplary lessons from Islamic history.
The Importance of Competence and Integrity
Integrity refers to honesty, trustworthiness, and freedom from corruption, while competence relates to proficiency, ability, and skill in executing tasks. In many situations, integrity alone is not enough if a person lacks the capability to solve problems or manage responsibilities effectively. Likewise, competence without integrity can lead to abuse of power and injustice.
Exemplary Lessons from Islamic History
1. Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) – Skill and Trust in Economic Management
During a looming famine, Prophet Yusuf offered himself to manage Egypt’s finances and agricultural resources. He said:
"Appoint me over the storehouses of the land. Indeed, I am a knowledgeable keeper." (Surah Yusuf: 55)
Prophet Yusuf was not only honest, but he also had economic expertise and long-term planning skills—critical for the situation at hand.
2. Prophet Musa (Moses) – Strength and Trustworthiness
When Prophet Musa helped the two daughters of Prophet Shu’ayb water their flocks, one of them advised her father:
"O my father, hire him. Indeed, the best one you can hire is the strong and trustworthy." (Surah al-Qasas: 26)
Two key criteria were highlighted: strength (competence) and trustworthiness (integrity). These form the foundation of selecting someone for important duties.
3. Prophet Sulaiman (Solomon) – Assessing Capability for Major Tasks
In the story of transporting Queen Balqis’s throne, Prophet Sulaiman evaluated who was most capable of executing the task swiftly and effectively. While a powerful jinn offered, someone with superior knowledge accomplished the task more efficiently.
This story shows how Prophet Sulaiman assessed individuals based on real ability and skill, not merely on proximity or rank.
4. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – Appointments Based on Expertise
Although there were many companions of great piety, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) appointed Khalid ibn al-Walid as a military commander due to his expertise in warfare strategy. This highlights that certain responsibilities require specific skills—not just moral excellence.
Lessons for Today’s Leadership
These prophetic examples provide clear guidance for us today. In public service and appointments, individuals must be selected based on ability and integrity. Choosing someone based on personal connections, influence, or appearances—without considering competence—can result in:
- Ineffective administration
- Wastage of resources
- Corruption and abuse of power
- Injustice to the public
A good leader is one who is knowledgeable, capable, honest, and trustworthy. Meritocracy must be upheld—only those who are qualified and competent should be entrusted with responsibility.
Conclusion
This article emphasizes that good moral character alone is not sufficient in fulfilling public duties. A leader or official must also possess skills and expertise relevant to their responsibilities. Islamic history offers many examples of how both values—competence and integrity—formed the foundation of successful leadership.
To achieve national progress and stability, and to avoid corruption and administrative weakness, this principle must be implemented at all levels of society—from top government positions to grassroots leadership.