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Educational steering An Moslem linear perspective Dr. Walid Ahmad Masadah, Department of Moslem Studies, College of Shariah and Moslem Studies,Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan And Dr. Ali Mohammad Jubran, Department of Moslem Studies, College of Shariah and Moslem Studies,Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan ABSTRACT This written report aimes to identify the of import bears of educational loss attractership from an Moslem perspective. It is an move to contri hardlye to the development and accord of educational attracters in Moslem institutions.This pull up s labors ordinate a break a centering actualizeing of schemeal effectiveness and provide use uplines for g eachopers of Moslem educational institutions in suppose to pass their Moslem managerial objectives successfully. This paper discusses the Moslem thought on educational lead. It managed to highlight both primeval and contemporary ideas on Moslem drawing cards. For that, ideas of Ibn Taymiya, Al-Farabi, Al-Mawardi, Al-Ghazali and Ibn Khaldoun as substantially as ideas of around(a) contemporary apprentices of educational lead were analyzed.It withal highlighted the briny determinations of educational lead in Islam such as the surveyary leader, the servant leader, the leader as a blow over, the authoritative leader and the educative leader as puff up as styles of educational leading in Islam such as sum attractorship, Collaborative leaders, Shuratic or Consultative leadershiphip and Supportive leadership. The definition of educational lead in Islam was analyzed at the beginning of the paper. Finally, the paper came up with few suggestions and recommendations for the Moslem educational leaders, managers and researchers.Keywords educational lead, roles of educational leaders, styles of educational leading Introduction This research discusses the main features of educational leading from an Moslem perspective. It impart be an tone-beginnin g to contri plainlye to the development and downstairsstanding of educational leaders in Muslim educational institutions. This pull up stakes give a burst sympathiseing of schemeal effectiveness and provide go acrosslines for principals of Islamic schools in put in to execute their Islamic educational objectives successfully. 1Aimes of the Research This research aimes to identify the Islamic model of educational leadership. It highlights both primaeval and contemporary ideas on Islamic leadership. It alike highlights the main roles and styles of educational leadership in Islam. The definition of leadership in Islam is analyzed at the beginning of the research. Leadership from an Islamic Perspective An Introduction Leadership in Islam is a responsibility and a devote that leaders go through when they charter with their chase. It is mete outed as a part of hero-worshipping Allah (s. . t). Leadership in Islam is to serve the members of the presidential term, the community and the cordial club at large, that is, get uping and maneuver flock to what is full in this world and the Hereafter. Understanding leadership from an Islamic perspective is an classic need today. The Muslim Ummah should pay can its own views and theories of whatever is necessary for Muslims. Islamic resources and history argon rich in ideas and examples, that may be used as the formations for the Islamic theoretical frame travel of leadership and red-hot(prenominal) subjects.Muslims in addition ar beginning to invest heavily in education and confederateship management, and the results be tangible (Beekun and Badawi, 1999 viii). This requires long efforts towards perceiveing the add of education and former(a) name subjects. In addition, the ethical and clean-living governance that is considered as the core of the Islamic frame choke of leadership is becoming an tenseness of the western perspective of the topic (Gardner, 1990 67- 80 Paine 1997 3 S pitzer, 2000 203- 244 Murphy and Shipman, 2000 99 Sergiovanni, 2001 103).This further fuels the need for investigating the topic of leadership more than than but from an Islamic perspective. 2 Because of the limited scholarly development on leadership from an Islamic perspective, the researchers forget often refer unmediatedly to the Qur? anic verses and the traditions of the prophet as the uncreated sources of the Islamic thought. In addition, contributions of the ahead of time and contemporary Muslim scholars in the interested survey impart be examined. The objective of this investigation is an attempt to understand the term of leadership more precisely and try to hang up with a framework for Islamic leadership.Definition of Leadership in Islam primeval Muslim scholars used words such as wilaya, imaumah and Khilafah to mean leadership. Ibn Taymiya (661-728 AH) be wilaya as maintaining the pietism of the pile such that if it is lost, they pass on be the losers, and maintaining a life that provide assist commonwealth to understand their religion. (1992 11). Al-Mawardi (957-1058) niped at Imamah in the context of the guarding of the religion and life. It is an obligatory trunk for all Muslims because without it, people lead be living in darkness and religion bequeath non be guarded. (quoted in Basbous 1988 47 and al-Wakeel 1988 22). On this matter Allah (s. w. t) has said in the Qur? an about seer Abraham (a. s) And remember that Abraham (a. s. ) was act by his Lord with current commands, which he fulfilled, He said I ordain distinguish thee an Imam to the people. (Qur? an 2 124). In his commentary on this verse, Ali (1985) explained that Imam means the primary sense of being fore to the highest degree hence it may mean leader in religion or leader in congregational solicitation or model, pattern and example. (p. 50). Therefore, ace of the meanings of Imamah is leadership. According to Ibn Khaldun (1332-1406 AC), Khilafa means to assist people to live in accordance with the Islamic rules as a focal point for their interests in this world and in the Hereafter. It is the vicegerent duty on behalf of Allah (s. w. t) to guard the religion and to manage life. (Ibn Khaldun, 1979 179). With regard to the term leadership, the Arabic dictionary of Al-Mo? ram Al-Waseet defined to lead? as to head a group plot of ground being in front (Mustafa et al. 1989 765). Therefore, leaders unceasingly come in front of their members and organization, and ar the number one.The American Heritage Dictionary of the English run-in in the same way defined to lead as to guide or call in a course, or to go graduation as a guide. (Morris, 1981 719). Leadership in Islam harmonise to somewhat writers could be the bridge used by some people to influence the members? attitudes and behaviors in stage to be equal to obtain the objectives of the organization (Adlouni and Sweidan 2000 18). According to this definition, the inf luential role of the leadership is the most important one as leaders can enable people to do the right job. Some scholars endure to connect the term of leadership with the brilliance of having a vision.They believe that impregnable leadership is one that can come up with a exculpated vision and thus be able to transfer such vision to the members. For example, Murad Khurram defined leadership as the ability to see beyond put on boundaries, and to come up with solutions or paths that few can visualize. The leader moldiness(prenominal)(prenominal) then project this vision for e actually one to see and affiance (quoted in Beekun and Badawi. 1999 5- 6). 4 Leadership could be defined as the mould of moving people in a planned direction by motivating them to act through noncompulsive means (al-Talib, 1992 50).This definition forceful the leader? s role in moving his or her organization? s members towards the attainment of the vulgar objectives. This means that leaders should non only direct people to do the job but to assistant them move by motivating them in a way that ordain pass on them to wealthy individual a productive attitude towards work. In a nonher way, leadership could alike be defined as the art of influencing and directing former(a)s towards a common objective in a way that leaders will rack up their members? bank, respect, cooperation and sincere obedience (Basbous 1988 28).It should be noned here that such definitions consider leadership as an art that requires some(prenominal) skills in understanding separates and transaction with them wisely. It emphasizes both the direction and influential roles of leadership. Similarly, Beekun and Badawi buzz off defined leadership as the process of directing and influencing organization members so that they will take self-possession of organizational activities and programs (1999 132). Al-Talib (1992) once again stressing that leadership is a process of influencing others (p. 50).Howeve r, leadership in Islam has a unique role that is guiding people to what is estimable in this world and the Hereafter. This means that leadership does not only deal with the mere objectives of the organization in the context of its daily work. The objectives of any organization must be connected with the religion? s objectives. Therefore, leadership has a late dimension which is the connection with the religion and the Creator. In this way, a Muslim leader will understand that his or her role is to guide people, not only to achieve the mission of the organization, but also to raise them higher(prenominal) than that and connect them with the highest goal of existence as a homophileity being. It should be be beget to everybody that worshipping Allah (s. w. t) is the main goal for all Muslims. Leadership in this way, should be understood as a soma of worship (al-Nahwi, 1999 36). Therefore, leadership is a guiding process more than a directing one. Leadership in this context coul d be the process of guiding and influencing the members of the organization so that they will display initiative and love for the work that they do as a kind of worship towards achieving the common objectives of the organization.By doing so, leaders and members will be able to attain happiness in both worlds. Early Ideas on Islamic Leadership Early Islamic thought has contributed significantly to the field of leadership. Muslim scholars and specialists determined the basis for this science that in turn became the sanctioned chemical elements of leadership in the Islamic narrate and the managing of community? s affairs. Their contributions to humanity in this respect chip in become a prominent and important element at the present time. One of the earliest scholars who raise uped upon the topic of leadership was Ibn Taymiyah (661-728 AH).He emphasized in his adjudge Assiyasah Ashariyah Fi Islah Arrai Warraiyah The Shariat Politics, the reform of the Islamic governance and lead ership. Ibn Taymiyah verbalise the liveing necessary characteristics for leaders to be able to lead. These ar trustworthiness, a healthful personal character, to be qualified, to be meetd, adherence to Islamic commands and an ability to carry out responsibilities (Ibn Taymiyah 1988 20- 21). He emphasized also some leadership principles to be taken into reflexion by politics leaders. These are responsibility, trust and Shura ( quotation) (Ibid. 17). According to Ibn Taymiyah, 6 Shura is recommended for two reasons. First, it will create familiarity and loving relations among the assert subjects. Second, shura will create arrogant mixer interaction that will improve the state? s performance (Ibid. 17). Ibn Taimiyah further investigated leadership in his second script Risalatul Hisbah WalHukomah Al-Islamiyah Al-Hisbah and the Responsibility of the Islamic Government. He discussed leadership arrest as a tool to preserve the legacy of the Islamic state and to redirect per sonal and govern affable actions towards the right direction.The leadership control is used to contribute effectively to the developmental process of the state. Later, al-Qalqashandi (756-821 AH) restore himself with leadership functions, particularly with the offices of civil disposal (kuttab). His well organized phonograph recording Subh Al-Asha Fi ill-doingat Al-Insha The Night-Blinds Morning is a useful textbook in the field of adminstative secretarial functions. The book contains preparatory office work, procedures, organization, responsibilities, requirements and means of communication between antithetic government circles.Al-Qalqashandi described in detail the characteristics of the executive officer as a leader which includes personal, physical, professional and social characters (al-Qalqashandi 1963 61- 67). Moreover, al-Qalqashandi developed an organizational social organisation for the leadership office and explained the responsibilities of severally bearer (Ibid . 101-139). Later, al-Farabi (872-950) concerned himself with proper leadership, a leadership that will be able to establish the virtuous state or the city of excellence? as he called it and will convey happiness to the people.He was also concerned with the characteristics 7 of the Muslim leader. Al-Farabi in his book Ara Ahl Al-Madinah Al-Fadilah Opinions of Dwellers of the City of Excellence, drawed out the characteristics of the rightly guided leaders. According to him, they should be intelligent, full of wisdom, possess complementary characters in terms of their physical and mental abilities, ideal and longsighted policy makers (al-Farabi 1985 127-130). He emphasized that a leader and those who are working with him should show excellent behavior in separate to achieve the ideal goals and ambitions of the society.Al-Farabi further focused on the importance of having slopped relationships among all members of the city of excellence and between all organizations. He argued t he members of the city of excellence must be able to cooperate and support each other. All dwellers should aim at achieving happiness for all. Al-Mawardi (957-1058) addressed the leadership system of the government. He looked at the government as a leader of the society and organizer of its activities. According to al-Mawardi, the leader is fully prudent for the prosperity of the society and ought to manage its various affairs effectively.The contents of his well-organized book, Al-Ahkam Assultaniyah Wal-Wilayat Addiniyah Fil-Idarah Al-Hukoumiyah The Sultanic Rules discusses the leadership system of the government and its fundamentals, and the leadership obligations of the head of state at regional, local and central levels. The book also contains recommendations regarding methods and techniques necessary for organizing government activities throughout disparate departments and circles. Moreover, alMawardi highlights some principles of leadership such as evaluator, hierarchy of l eadership, qualification, worthiness in employment and distinctiveness (al-Mawardi 1983 20). From a mental point of view, al-Ghazali (1058-1111) a well-known Islamic scholar focused on studying the behavior of the Muslim leaders. He was concerned with the leadership of the citizens, society and Muslim affairs. In his valuable book in the field of leadership, Attibir Al-Masbouk Fi Naseehat Al-Molouk, Council or Advice for Kings, he outlined the characteristics of a leader from an Islamic perspective. Al-Ghazali provided ten commandments supported by the hadith of the visionary (p. b. u. h. ) and viewpoints of Muslim philosophers that should be taken by the Muslim leaders.Some of these commandments are shura (consultation), avoidance of committing injustice, softness and pump as a mode of conduct between authorities and citizens and dowery members in solving their problems whether personal or professional (al-Ghazali 1987 22-33). From another(prenominal) angle, Ibn Khaldun (1 332-1406) laid emphasis on the social aspects of leadership and organization. His famous book Al-Ibar Wa Diwan Al-Mubtada WalKhabar Fi Ayyam Al-Arab Wal-Barbar Wal-A halt Waman Asarahum Min Dhawi Assultan Al-Akbar (Al-Moqaddimah) The Introduction is considered as one of the most important books in the field of social science.He emphasized that leadership is an outcome of social interaction between different social groups. Ibn Khaldun believed that the social organization is cogitate to many factors and environmental elements, which come across human behavior and ultimately, will be reflected in the leadership of the society. Ibn Khaldun also stated that the development of the social organization? s structure is related to its cultural background (Ibn Khaldun 1979 144). Ability to structure an organization is one aspect of leadership.He believes that studying the development of the organization will armed service to forecast its future potential. This will be done by 9 combining environmental elements, and as he believed, with both psychological and geographical. It is worth mentioning that the contribution of the above mentioned Muslim scholars remain as the basic pillars for the development of current leadership thought. However, most of these contributions focused on the leadership of the government and state affairs that can be useful for managing institutions in society and in shaping the philosophy of leadership from the Islamic perspective.Yet it dust acquit that in that respect is no published work on educational leadership by early Muslim scholars. Contemporary Ideas on Islamic Leadership Although the study of leadership is one of the most important field of modern time, with the Qur? an and the Sunnah providing us with numerous references for understanding the Islamic onset to leadership, Muslim intellectuals have failed to give it its proper due. In addition to the contributions of the early Muslim scholars in th e field of leadership, there is also the matter-of-fact application of the Islamic approach to eadership through the Islamic states throughout history. Until today, Muslim intellectuals have been unable to formalize an Islamic sup note of leadership. Although there have been many attempts to do so, starting with the intellectual awakening transaction at the beginning of the 20th century, yet no serious or scientific steps were taken until the sixth decade of this century. Till now, most of such attempts were not aimed at formulating an Islamic theory of leadership, but quite were trying to prove that Islam had sufficient resources to 10 formulate such a theory.Additionally, they also attempted to prove that some of the Western acquisitions in this field were rooted in Islamic principles. much(prenominal) an approach is apologetic in nature, and will not lead to formulating a proper Islamic theory of leadership, even though it is indeed the first step in doing so. A more proper approach would be to examine the Qur? an, Sunnah and Islam? s heritage, and try to deduce a theory of leadership, its objectives, characteristics, roles, styles, dimensions and principles. These attempts that aimed at presenting an Islamic feature of the leadership theory have succeeded in doing so.Some researchers raised the issue of Islamic leadership and tried to define it based on an Islamic point of view. The attempts also have come up with a set of characteristics of Islamic leadership and stated its objectives and goals. In addition, other researchers analyzed some periods of Islamic history starting from the time of seer Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ), his khalifs (r. a. ), the Ummayad and Abbasiad periods and others. These analyses aimed at identifying the leadership practices, to be found in Islamic history.Following is a summary of the contemporary related studies that touched the topic of leadership from an Islamic perspective A very important study that touched the topic of leadership was Nitham Al-Huk omah Al-Nabawiyah, The visionarys System of Governance by al-Kittani (1920), who was dissatisfied with the obvious lack of published material on Islamic leadership and administration especially in regard to the oracle Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ). Al-Kittani? s book is a collection of narrations that recorded some events and behaviors of leadership and administration as practised by Prophet Muhammad (p. . u. h. ). However, these practices were not related in any way to any kind of the leadership system in command or in Islam in particular. 11 Muslim scholars have shown the ecumenical features of the Islamic leadership. Fazlul Karim (1963) for example has focused on the unique concepts of the Muslim leader. He outlined some leadership concepts as guidelines for leaders to be followed. He explained these concepts when he wrote the following about the Muslim leader He shall view this world as a temporary resting place for zeal for the everlasting and eternal next world.He shall unceas ingly endeavour to acquire, in his lifetime, as much religious merit by just and honest administration, which must be based upon justice, social equity and efficiency. He shall place himself as a mere servant of the people and a trustee for his subjects, i. e. those down the stairs him in command as well as the public in general (quoted in al-Buraey, 1985 238). Fazlul Karim further elaborated on some other principles of leadership in Islam. Among them are the following A Muslim leader shall love for his subjects what he loves for himself and his immediate family and relatives.He shall keep his door always pay for hearing grievances and for redressing of impropers. He shall use, as a keynote of his administrative policies, justice coupled with mercy. He shall observe the religious duties and rites of others. He shall wisely elect pious, truthful and sincere men as his ministers and aids and advisors. He shall look after every community with an eye of equality so farther as justi ce is concerned. He shall govern the people under his administrative charge according to the laws of the Qur? an, Sunnah and general rules of equity and justice (Ibid).More recently, Abu Sin (1986 171) emphasized that leadership thought in Islam is based on the Qur? an, Sunnah and the human set that were prevalent at the beginning of Islamic history. Therefore, Muslims have to look at their legislative sources precisely in order to understand the Islamic perspective of leadership. In addition, they could look at leadership practices of the early Muslim state formed by Prophet Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ) and his Pious caliphs (r. a. ). 12 According to many scholars, the comprehensiveness and all encompassing nature of Islamic leadership theory is what distinguishes it from other leadership theories.The striking feature of an Islamic leadership theory is its emphasis on all the relevant variables and factors that affect the leadership cycle or process, inside and outside the organization , as well as its understanding of individual behavior in light of social and cultural forces. It includes an important dimension, that is the ethical and moral factors that have a capital effect on leadership behavior in organizations. As for the practical program of an Islamic leadership that would achieve its objectives, Abu Sin (1986 201) stressed the importance of connecting leadership with the Islamic social environment making it bound by society? social values. The concept of shura and participation should be applied, and a humanitarian environment that encourages higher productivity should be secured. The scotch variable should also be dealt with by providing it for the material needs of the workers. An Islamic leadership is the one that seeks happiness for the individual and society. AlBuraey (1994 17) stated that Islamic leadership assists the individual in attaining happiness in both worlds. Therefore, the function of leadership is to direct human resources properly in order to serve society in achieving happiness.Muslim scholars succeeded in drawing attention towards this important dimension for leadership in Islam. Jabnoun (1994) make the distinction between Islamic and the Western perspectives of leadership by locution that, unlike the common concepts of management, Islam encompasses the dimensions of belief in Allah (s. w. t) and the Hereafter. These added dimensions have innumerable ramifications on the actions and interactions of individuals, organizations and societies. (pp. 1- 2). Like Abu Sin 13 1986) and al-Buraey (1990), Jabnoun (1994) emphasized that moral philosophy play a major role in Islamic perspectives. Although his book was on leadership in general, the writer concentrated on some Qura? nic verses and some of hadith literture related to the elements of leadership, such as planning, organizing and leading. However, the writer relied on both Islamic and Western sources of management. To emphasize more the ethical dimension of l eadership, Abdul-Athim (1994) believes that values and ethics are the most important features of Islamic leadership.Therefore, he concentrated on discussing Islamic values and their influence on the leadership process at its various levels of planning, organizing, implementing, supervising and others. The objective of an Islamic leadership is mainly the worship of Allah (s. w. t) on Earth by applying the Islamic principles in ibadat and muamalat, establishing khilafah and justice. such(prenominal) objectives were presented by many Muslim writers such as Abu Sin (1986 200). However, such a set of objectives is for every Muslim, which means that the evaluation of achievement of an Islamic leadership is difficult.Furthermore, the higher objective of an Islamic leadership and its proper tools and instruments were presented by al-Ali in his book Al-Idarah Fil-Islam, plaque in Islam which mentioned that Islam combines faith and inviolable deeds (al-Ali 1985 68). Allah (s. w. t) says By time, verily man is in loss, except such as have Faith, and do righteous deeds, and (join together) in the mutual enjoining of truth, and of patience and constancy. (Qur? an 103 1- 3). Islamic leadership has sublime characteristics that distinguish it from other models of leaderships.In his second book forethought and Administration in Islam, al-Buraey 14 (1990) allocated an entire chapter to the roots of Islamic leadership. He stated that, The most important characteristic of the leadership in Islam was the religious and moral spirit which dominated the entire field of government and leadership under Prophet Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ) and the four pious caliphs. (al-Buraey, 1990 233). He emphasized that the orientation and general philosophy of Islamic leadership centres on the concepts of piety, shura consultation, justice, equality, and social equity.Al-Ali (1985) on the other hand mentioned some characteristics of leadership in Islam, in addition to the personal effects of Qur? an and Sunnah on the development of leadership. He also mentioned some Qur? anic verses and sayings of the Prophet (p. b. u. h. ) to support the idea that we have the resources to Islamize anything. However, he did not relate these sayings to the Islamic system of leadership or administration. More recently, Beekun and Badawi (1999) in their book entitled Leadership An Islamic Perspective, emphasized the importance of morals and good behavior in the Islamic leadership.They mentioned the four main bases of Islamic moral character that Muslim leaders should follow. These are Iman or faith, Islam, Taqwa or piety, and Ihsan (pp. 19- 25). They emphasized additional five key hallmarks of Islamic behavior. These are adl (justice), amanah (trust), birr (righteousness), mujahadah (struggle) and ahd ( memory a promise) (Ibid. 26- 33). The two authors touched briefly upon the roles of leadership from an Islamic perspective. They stated that a Muslim leader should be both a servant and a guar dian for his or her pursuit (Ibid. 15).Finally, there were some attempts aimed at presenting the features of an Islamic theory of leadership. Abdul-Athim (1994) called for a theory in which values and morals are 15 the basis. He called this attempt as leadership by values?. Abu Sin also specified the main features of an Islamic theory of leadership as follows 1. It is connected to the social philosophy of the Muslim society, its ethics and values. 2. It stresses the economic variable and material incentive, and works to satisfy the needs of the individual. 3. It also gives consideration to the human and spiritual dimensions.It respects the individual as a human being and incorporates him in the administrative process, each according to his capabilities. 4. It should also give due attention to organizational diminution specification of responsibilities, respect for authority, prescribed ties and the organizational structure (1986 188). Educational Leadership Roles in Islam Educati onal leadership in Islam has some unique roles as it is concerned with worldly matters as well as spiritual ones. A Muslim leader in any organization has all of these interests.As he strives for the success of the organization, he takes cope regarding the satisfaction of Allah (s. w. t. ). Additionally, he or she has the responsibility of guiding people to the good for this life and for the Hereafter. This section will look at five roles of educational leadership in Islam. A. The Visionary Educational Leader A Muslim leader is a forward- aspect person whose main concern is to achieve the vision of the planned future quite an than just the daily objectives of the organization. He or she has a clear vision that guides him or her towards the achievement of the objectives by following the right way and method.The leader? s vision will clarify why one is here, how and what one is doing and what one will be doing in the future. Leaders have to transform this clear vision to the members of the organization. This will 16 enhance the organization and lead it to a high state whereby everybody is informed of what he or she is doing and towards what end. Allah (s. w. t) asked the Prophet (p. b. u. h. ) and his companions to be patient and not to clash with their oppressors because the final vision had yet to be reached. Allah (s. w. t) said in the Qur? n Hast thou not turned thy thought to those who were told to hold back their hands (from urge) but establish unshakable prayers and spend in regular Zakah (Qur? an 4 77). Prophet Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ) therefore, kept planning for this final vision until it was achieved when the first Islamic state was established in Medina. It was clear thus that the Prophet (p. b. u. h. ) had a very clear vision from the beginning of his Prophethood. He refused several times to clash with Quraish tribes in Mecca during the first thirteen years of the new religion.His vision was clear that is grammatical construction a new and uni que Islamic state. Small clashes here and there will not support Muslims to achieve their final goal. Even when his companions were suffering, he only used to ask them to have patience. (Abdul-Wahhab 1997 106). Therefore, a visionary leader is required for any organization that is looking forward to achieving its future objectives. B. The Servant Educacational Leader Serving one? s people is one of the main roles of a Muslim leader. Educational leadership in this context, is not a matter of privilege or position. It is preferably a huge responsibility.Educational leaders need therefore to feel that they are the servants of their followers in order to be able to fulfill their duties in the best way possible. This feeling will help leaders to make great efforts towards protecting the members of the organization and do whatever necessary to achieve its objectives. 17 The Prophet (p. b. u. h. ) said A ruler who has been entrusted with the affairs of the Muslims but makes no endeavor (for the material and moral upliftment) and is not sincerely concerned (for their welfare) will not enter Paradise along with them. (Muslim, n. d. Vol. 1, ch. 44, hadith no 64, p. 82). Prophet Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ) said A commander (of the Muslims) is a shield for them. They fight behind him and they are protected by him (from tyrants and aggressors). If he enjoins fear of Allah (s. w. t), the luxurious and Glorious, and dispenses justice, there will be a (great) reward for him and if he enjoins otherwise, it rebounds on him. (Muslim, 1987, hadith No. 4542). The second caliph Umar Ibn al-Khattab (r. a. ) was quoted as telling his people I have plant over you governors and agents not to beat your bodies or take your money, but rather to teach you and serve you. (Abdul-Hadi 1970 73 and al-Buraey 1985 248). It is clear therefore that a Muslim leader should net that he or she is obliged to serve the members of the organization as part of serving the Muslim Ummah. C. The Educacat ional Leader as a Guide A Muslim educational leader is but a guide who is concerned about his followers? well being. His main concern is guiding them to what is good in the organization in life in general and in the Hereafter. He has to direct the followers towards understanding the vision of the organization and how they are going to achieve success in their duties in the best manner.He should have such ability. In addition, the Muslim leader should have in mind that one of his duties is to direct people to be good Muslims besides being professional members. 18 About several of His prophets, Allah (s. w. t) said in the Qur? an And We made them leaders, guiding (men) by Our command, and We inspired them to do good deeds, to establish regular prayers and to give Zakah and they incessantly served Us (and Us only). (Qur? an 21 73). To reiterate the idea, Allah (s. w. t) said in the Qur? n about the children of Israel And We appointed, from among them, leaders, giving guidance under O ur command, so long as they persevered with patience and continued to have faith in Our signs. (Qur? an 32 24). The caliph Umar Ibn al-Khattab (r. a. ) reinforced the meaning of guiding? when he addressed the newly appointed governors and agents as follows Listen, verily I am not sending you as rulers and potentates rather, I am sending you as the leaders of guidance so that men may follow you. Render unto the Muslims their rights beat them not, lest you humiliate them panegyric them not lest you make them undisciplined.Do not shut your doors against them, lest the strong among them devour the tender ones (Husaini 1958 83). It was clear for all Muslim leaders during the time of Umar (r. a. ) that they were just to guide their people and help them towards living in happiness. This role should be clear also for today? s Muslim leaders in order to understand the essence of educational leadership and be able to lead people towards success in this life and in the Hereafter. D. The Inf luential Educacational Leader A Muslim leader? s job is not only to serve and guide people but to bring about some changes for the betterment of their lives.Educational leadership in this context is connected with change from the wrong to the right. By influencing people, leaders will be able to transform their spirit, noesis and experience to everybody in the 19 organization. However, this will not be achieved unless leaders are good models and examples for their followers. The Prophet (p. b. u. h. ) was very successful in influencing people and guiding them to the new religion beginning with his wife Khadija (r. a), his scraggy companion Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (r. a) and all other companions (Abdul-Wahhab 1997 97).The caliph Abu Bakr (r. a) was then very influential in persuading Umar Bin al-Khattab and other people regarding the importance of fighting those who refused to pay the Zakah in order not to differentiate between all pillars of Islam (al-Sayouti 1994 87). This resulted i n keeping the religion as pure as Prophet Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ) preached it to his people. Such examples are to be followed by all Muslim leaders who intend to encourage some positive changes in the lives of their followers. Leaders should realize that leading must come together with influencing. The leader? influential role can touch the hearts of the members of the organization and affect their behaviors. E. The Educative Leader A Muslim educational leader is concerned about the enhancement of the potentials and capabilities of all members. thereof educational leadership is concerned with the advancement of the members of the organization in a number of ways, especially spiritually, mentally, intellectually, psychologically, socially and professionally. A leader? s main mission is not only to ensure the job is done but also to develop and train people in order to be fitting, efficient and independent.Educational leadership in Islam in this context will tolerate leaders to tra nsfer their experiences to the members. As a result, the capable people will be trained in one way or another to be the leaders of the future and the cycle will continue. 20 The Prophet (p. b. u. h. ) used to teach his companions in different ways, especially when somebody was disposed(p) a position involving leadership. It has been reported that when Prophet Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ) appointed Ali Ibn Abi Talib (r. a. ) as a judge in Yemen, he was concerned that he had no experience in the field. Regarding this incident, Ali (r. . ) said the Prophet (p. b. u. h. ) sent me to Yemen as a judge. I said Oh Messenger of Allah I am a youth, how could you send me to a people who are far advanced in years than me. The Prophet prayed for me, and said ? If two adversaries approach you (for fair judgement) and you hear the claim of one, do not judge until you have heard from the other, for this is to decide the case(al-Baihaqi n. d. , Vol. 10, Kitab Adab alQadi, p. 86). It is clear here that Prophet Muhammad (p. b. u. h. ) had taught Ali (r. a. ) the main and most general rule to be practiced by a judge.Muslim leaders therefore, should follow such examples and train their followers how to do the assigned jobs. By doing this, members will be more confident in tackling their duties and as a result, they will be more professional in their concerned fields. Educacational Leadership Styles in Islam Educational leadership from an Islamic perspective has some unique styles which makes it different from other styles of educational leadership. They are based on the Islamic principles that guide and frame the theoretical perspective of educational leadership.Four educational leadership styles could be recognized brotherhood, collaborative, shuratic or consultative and supportive educational leadership styles. However, Muslim leaders can adapt more than one style as they relate to each other. Feelings of brotherhood within the organization will lead people to collaborate with each other and will help the leader to support his or her followers. On the other hand, applying the shura system in the finish making process will bring the leader and the 21 followers together as everybody feels loyal to the organization.This section will look at these four possible educational leadership styles in Islam. A. Brotherhood Educacational Leadership It is a style of educational leadership in which the leader and all the organization? s members are considered as a family. Followers feel that they are but brothers and sisters of each other before having any kind of organizational structure or position. To have the real essence of brotherhood, leaders tend to feel that they are not better than any other person in the organization. They also tend to deal with others exactly as they like to be dealt with.Having this feeling in an Islamic organization will make everybody feel as part of one family. Such an achievement will help to create a socially healthy environment for the e xcellence of the organization. It was reported that Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (r. a. ) has said when he was appointed as the Khalifa (leader) for the Muslims I am not a better person than any one of you, if I am right follow me and if I am wrong, adapt me. (al-Sayouti 1994 84). Today? s leaders need such feelings that guide them to understand the essence of educational leadership that Muslim organizations need at this time.It is not a matter of having a rank or a position but rather it is a matter of feeling of equality and building good relationships with the members of the organization. The fifth Rashidi (rightly guided) caliph Umar Bin Abdul-Aziz also has been reported to have said that I am not a better person than any one of you, but I am just having more responsibilities than any one of you. (al-Sayouti 1994 276). Therefore, leaders 22 should feel they are responsible for creating an environment of brotherhood in their organizations in which members feel that they are close to eac h other.Such an environment will enhance the social relationships among everybody and motivate them for better achievements. B. Collaborative Educacational Leadership Working in harmony as a team is an inner feeling in most people.. Leaders should realize that they cannot work separately even if they are experts unless they cooperate with everybody in the organization. Leaders then believe that strengthening the relationships of the members will lead to success. Such strong relationships and cooperation will bring harmony to the organization, which will create a positive and healthy environment.To achieve that, leaders tend to have the members working in groups as much as possible. They tend also to have some social programs for all members. As a result, members in the same way will believe that they cannot achieve their objectives unless they put their hands together and work as one team. The Islamic model of educational leadership emphasizes co-operation rather than competition (a l-Buraey, 1985 344). Allah (s. w. t. ) directed Muslims to help each other. He said help ye one another in righteousness and piety, but help ye not one another in sin and rancour. (Qur? an 5 2).This kind of help and cooperation will be considered as a system for Muslims in order to achieve success. Leaders therefore should help their followers to overcome their problems and hasten whatever they need in order to carry out their duties in the best way possible. 23 C. Shuratic or Consultative Educacational Leadership any(prenominal) experience the leader has, his or her decision will be according to one person? s opinion. He or she will believably feel the need for others? opinions and ideas before making any necessary decisions that world power affect the members of the organization.Leaders therefore apply the shura (consultation) method in any way that allows them to listen to others and allow the members to express their ideas on certain important matters that concern the organi zation. Leaders then will tend to ask for feedback about any matter that concerns the school and the members. As a result, members will feel bring out to go to the leader and present any necessary suggestions or advice. Such an atmosphere will create a high level of trust and spirit among all members of the organization. Allah (s. w. t) said in the Qur? n about Muslims Those who answer to their Lord, and establish regular prayer who (conduct) their affairs by mutual consultation who spend out of what We bestow on them for sustenance. (Qur? an 42 38). Mutual consultation as Allah (s. w. t) declared, is a distinguishing Muslim trait, especially of leaders. What makes shura unique in the Islamic point of view is its consensus generating mechanism rather than majority or minority influence. (alBuraey, 1985 344). All decisions that have been agreed upon in any organization must be in accordance with the Islamic principles.Practicing shura (consultation) will help leaders to more inv olve the members of the organization in the decision making process. As a result, the members will be more motivated to do their job. They will feel a sense of belonging to the organization, as it is their own. They will also feel as having an important role to play and not only 24 implementing whatever they have been asked to do. Such an environment will rise the team spirit in the organization. D. Supportive Educacational Leadership Islamic educational leadership believes in supporting the members of the organization in their work. Leaders are trying to be on their members? ide. The organization? s members are always in need of their leaders? want and encouragement. They need the spiritual motivation before any other. They also need training programs that increase their noesis and skills in different fields. Therefore, leaders in this style will take any given opportunity to motivate and encourage their followers in different ways and utilize different situations. Leaders belie ve in training and developing the members in necessary skills, and thus a continuous professional development program for the members is an absolute priority. In clarifying Prophet Muhammad? s (p. b. u. h. duty, Allah (s. w. t) said in the Qur? an It is He Who has sent amongst the unlettered, a courier from among themselves, to rehearse to them His signs, to purify them, and to instruct them in the Book and wisdom, although they had been, before, in shew error. (Qur? an 62 2). It is evident here that the duty of the Prophet (p. b. u. h. ) as a leader was not only to make sure that everything proceeded smoothly but also to teach, educate and develop further people? s knowledge and skills. Muslim leaders should practice such duties that will help them to understand the essence of educational leadership and be good leaders.RECOMMENDATIONS This work was an attempt in studying the philosophy of educational leadership in Islam. It tried to cover part of it to some extent. Other parts su ch as the objectives, 25 characteristics, fundamentas and principles of educational leadership in Islam and other topics need more investigations. The researchers, therefore, would suggests the following recommendations to enhance the status of Islamic educational leadership 1. Muslim scholars should make great efforts towards investigating the concepts of Islamic educational leadership. They have to do more in-depth research on this topic.This will be of assistance in formulating a theory of educational leadership from the Islamic perspective which contributes to the active knowledge and engage with it by means of accommodation or modification. 2. some(prenominal) education ministries in Muslim nations, Muslim manager training institutions, Muslim leadership training institutions and authorities dealing with Muslim institutions should pay a great deal of attention towards understanding the concepts of Islamic leadership and educational leadership. As Muslims, they should emphasiz e more on realizing that every aspect in life including administration in all institutions must be in ccordance with Islam. 3. Courses on educational leadership in universities, colleges and managers training institutions should focuss more on incorporating Islamic concept of educational leadership. This will enable these institutions to produce sound, wise(p) and skillful managers and administrators who are able to serve the Muslim Ummah. 4. Educational leaders, managers and other administrators should practice more clearly the Islamic way of leadership. They should consider their work for the sake of Allah as the highest level on their list of priorities.They should be competent and should possess good character (akhlaq) so that they can be role models for others especially the younger generation. 5. Educational leaders should make a great effort to create a sound and healthy environment for their organization. Such an environment will help accomplish the objectives of the instit ution. 26 6. Research centres and educational leadership institutions should organize more seminars, workshops and conferences in order to disseminate the concepts of educational leadership from an Islamic perspective. This will also help to consolidate and shed light on the Islamic theory of leadership. 7.Muslim scholars who are well-versed in Western educational leadership should increase their efforts in doing comparative studies between the Islamic and Western philosophies of educational leadership. 8. The five educational leadership roles and four educational leadership styles from an Islamic perspective that have been studied could be a guideline for selecting new leaders and managers for the Islamic organizations. 9. Further studies are to be conducted in the Islamic institutions in Muslim countries. 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