All the Sultan's Men

All the Sultans Men is a translation of Imam al-Suyutis text Ma Rawahu al-Asatin fi Adami al-Majii ila al-Salatin. As indicated by the title it argues and establishes the blameworthy nature of scholars associating with rulers. Since the age of early Muslims when the Prophetic Khilafah ended and the era of Muslim kings and empires began scholars have wrestled with the nature of the relationship between the ulema-class and rulers. Some of our most illustrious Imams such as Imam Abu Hanifah & Imam Malik refused official appointments from rulers. Moreover they refused to visit them in their courts. Others such as Qadi Abu Yusuf - the student of Imam Abu Hanifah - accepted official appointments. Such disparity in the way of dealing with the rulers was echoed throughout the time of the Tabiin. Some scholars accepted appointments while others criticized them and refused such an association.Nonetheless both scholar and layman require guidance on the correct measures to take in times of confusion. One may wonder When is it acceptable for a scholar to accept an appointment? Or When is it appropriate for a scholar to avoid politics altogether? Others may ask Is there a middle ground between the two opinions? Such questions require in-depth answers. Although this text is only an introduction to the subject it provides clear guidance on what kinds of interactions with the rulers are blameworthy for scholars and why.