WHEN a French journalist sarcastically asked King Hassan II, “Do you fear for your throne?” the king’s response was striking. With a smile, he replied, “I have no fear for the throne, because the bond between me and my people is built on mutual trust, not fear. It forms the foundation of governance.” He further elaborated, “Anyone who needs fear to maintain authority was never worthy of leadership to begin with. I govern a people who cannot be bought, are not easily deceived, and who never forget those who show them genuine affection. Learn history ... A leader who lacks love for his people will never endure for long.”
Nur ad-Din Zengi and Eid al-Adha Forty days before Eid al-Adha, Nur ad-Din Zengi (May Allah have mercy on him) captured 30,000 sheep from the Crusaders during a raid. He sent a message to the judge of Damascus, requesting that the sheep be accepted and distributed among the people of the Levant. The judge replied, “The people of Damascus have sufficient provisions; we will add another 10,000 sheep.”
This brought the total to 40,000. Nur ad-Din then sent the same message to the judge of Egypt, who responded that Egypt, too, had enough provisions and would contribute an additional 30,000 sheep, along with grains, crops, and clothing. The total number of sheep distributed reached 70,000. He then sent his message to the scholars of the Hijaz, who replied with a distressing plea, “Please send all necessary provisions. The people here are on the brink of ruin due to severe famine, drought, and grain shortages.”
Nur ad-Din responded by sending all the aid he had received and contributed from his fortune until the people of the Hijaz were relieved. They nourished the pilgrims and stored preserved meat and grain for times of hardship. Reflect on the compassion that existed among the people of Islam, how they cared for one another and honored those in need. Also, reflect on how, during years of famine, the Hijaz itself received supplies from Somalia. Ships would sail from the coasts of Africa laden with grain, dates, corn, clothing, and sheep to the land of the Two Holy Mosques, without borders, visas, nationalities, or expectation of payment. Consider how much things have changed today. When will this nation return to the way Allah intended it to be?
