Thus, the term “judge” applies to anyone who adjudicates between two people (1), whether he is called a caliph, a ruler, a deputy, or a governor; whether he has been appointed to judge according to the Sacred Law or serves as his deputy; and even someone who judges between children concerning their handwriting when they vie to determine whose is best. This is what the Companions of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) stated, and it is evident.

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Strength and trustworthiness are rarely combined in people. Hence, Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) would say: “O Allah, to You I complain of the vigor of the wicked and the helplessness of the trustworthy.” (2)

What is required for every office is the person best suited to its particular demands. If two men are nominated (3), one of whom [أ/ق 6] is more trustworthy while the other is stronger, preference should be given to whichever of them will be more beneficial in that office and cause less harm in it. Thus, for military command, the strong and courageous man—even if he is morally corrupt—is given preference over the weak and incapable man, even if he is trustworthy. Imam Ahmad was accordingly asked (4) about two men being considered as commanders for a military campaign—one strong but morally corrupt, and the other