This is encompassed by His words—Exalted is He—: “Indeed, Allah commands you to deliver trusts to those entitled to them” [al-Nisā’: 58].

Chapter

As for the words of Allah Most High, “And when you judge between people, judge with justice” [al-Nisā’: 58], judgment between people concerns prescribed punishments and rights, which fall into two categories.

The first category comprises prescribed punishments and rights that do not belong to particular individuals, but whose benefit extends to Muslims generally or to a particular class among them, and which everyone needs. These are known as the prescribed limits and rights of Allah (1). They include the prescribed penalties for highway robbers, thieves, those who commit unlawful sexual intercourse, and the like. They also include decisions concerning affairs of government, endowments, and bequests that are not designated for particular individuals. These are among the foremost responsibilities of public authority. Hence, Alī ibn Abī Tālib—may Allah be pleased with him—said: “People must have a government, whether righteous or wicked.” He was asked, “Commander of the Faithful, we understand the need for a righteous government, but what of a wicked one?” He replied, “Through it, prescribed punishments are enforced, roads are kept safe, the enemy is fought, and public revenues are apportioned” (2).

Those in authority must seek out matters falling within this category (3) (4) and enforce them without any claim