Yet what generally prevails in such matters is corruption of both intention and conduct. The intention is corrupted by seeking power and wealth; the conduct, by committing forbidden acts and neglecting obligations—not because of conflicting requirements, nor in pursuit of what is more beneficial and conducive to good. Moreover, although holding office may be permissible, recommended, or obligatory, something else may be more binding or more desirable for a particular individual. The better of the two good courses should then take precedence, sometimes as an obligation and sometimes as a recommendation.

An example of this is Joseph the truthful taking charge of the treasuries of the land for the king of Egypt—indeed, his asking the king to appoint him over them. The king and his people were disbelievers, as Allah, Exalted is He, says:

“Joseph had already come to you before with clear proofs, yet you remained in doubt about what he brought you”—to the end of the verse.

The Exalted also relates Joseph’s words:

“O my two fellow prisoners! Are many different lords better, or Allah, the One, the All-Subduing?

“You worship besides Him nothing but names that you and your forefathers have devised”—to the end of the verse.

It is well known that, despite their disbelief, they must have had established customs and practices for collecting revenues and distributing them among the king’s entourage, his household, his army, and his subjects. These practices would not have accorded with the way of the prophets and their justice. Joseph could not do everything he wished—that is, what he considered to be part of Allah’s religion—for the people had not responded to his call. Nevertheless, he practised whatever justice and goodness he could. Through his authority, he was able to honour the believers among his household in ways that would otherwise have been beyond his reach. All of this falls within His words: