Sovereignty is a multifaceted concept that refers to the supreme authority and power to govern within a defined territory or domain. It encompasses the right to make laws, enforce them, and control resources within a specific jurisdiction. Sovereignty can be vested in various entities, such as a monarch, a government, or the people themselves in a democratic system.
In the Quranic context, sovereignty takes on a distinct meaning deeply rooted in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. The Quran asserts that ultimate sovereignty belongs solely to Allah (God). This concept, known as tawhid al-hakimiyyah, emphasizes the oneness of Allah's sovereignty and His exclusive right to legislate and govern.
Several key principles underpin the Quranic concept of sovereignty:
Tawhid (Oneness of God): Central to Islamic belief is the concept of tawhid, affirming the oneness of Allah in His lordship, divinity, and attributes. This includes His sovereignty over all creation, as stated in Surah Al-Hashr (59:23): "He is Allah, other than whom there is no deity, the Sovereign, the Pure, the Perfection, the Bestower of Faith..."
Divine Legislation: According to Islamic teachings, Allah is the ultimate legislator, and His laws, as revealed in the Quran and the Sunnah (teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad), form the basis of Islamic jurisprudence. Surah Al-An'am (6:114) affirms this by stating, "Then is it other than Allah I should seek as judge while it is He who has revealed to you the Book explained in detail?" This verse highlights the Quran as the ultimate source of guidance and legislation.
Submission to Allah's Will: The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of submission (Islam) to Allah's will and commands. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:208) encapsulates this principle: "O you who have believed, enter into Islam completely [and perfectly] and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy." Muslims are called to submit to Allah's sovereignty in all aspects of their lives.
Accountability and Justice: The Quranic concept of sovereignty includes the idea of accountability before Allah. Leaders and individuals entrusted with authority are accountable for their actions and decisions. Surah Al-Zalzalah (99:6-8) illustrates this accountability: "So whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it, And whoever does an atom's weight of evil will see it."
Stewardship of the Earth: Muslims believe that humans are vicegerents (khulafa) on Earth, entrusted by Allah with the responsibility of stewardship. This stewardship entails respecting the rights of all creation and managing resources responsibly. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:30) addresses this concept: "And [mention, O Muhammad], when your Lord said to the angels, 'Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority...'"
In summary, the Quranic concept of sovereignty emphasizes the absolute authority of Allah as the ultimate legislator and ruler. Muslims are called to recognize and submit to this sovereignty, ensuring that their actions and governance structures align with the divine guidance provided in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.