Regret for eagerness to rule on Judgment Day
šį¹¢ahÄ«h al-BukhÄrÄ« 7148
“Abu Huraira reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, ‘Verily, you will crave leadership, and it will be a source of regret on the Day of Resurrection. How nice is the wet nurse, yet how evil is the weaning!'”
Description:
- This hadith addresses the human tendency to crave leadership or positions of authority.
- The craving refers to desiring power, control, or recognition over others, sometimes for personal gain rather than justice.
- The analogy: a wet nurse is pleasant (nourishment, comfort), but the weaning is painful (responsibility, accountability). Leadership may seem appealing, but it comes with heavy responsibilities and eventual judgment.
What We Learn Today:
- Leadership and authority are not just privileges; they are tests.
- Craving positions for personal gain, fame, or honor can lead to regret on the Day of Judgment.
- True leaders should focus on justice, service, and obedience to Allah, not self-interest.
- Even small responsibilities in society are opportunities for accountability, reminding us to approach authority humbly.
Qurāanic Context:
šQurāan 4:58
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justiceā¦”
Leadership and authority are trusts from Allah, and misusing them leads to regret.
šQurāan 23:8
“And they who are faithful to their trusts and their covenantsā¦”
True leadership is tied to honoring trusts and fulfilling responsibilities, not seeking status or power.