Facing Political Power in Islamic Ethics

The present article looks at the control of political power through the lens of Islamic ethics, which distinguishes between the two approaches of direct and indirect criticism by examining some ethical texts. In these texts, the direct critique of power, on the one hand, is necessary to correct the state of society; but on the other hand, given its enormous dangers, it is advisable to avoid it. In addition, the indirect critique of power refers to issues in ethics, the political dimensions of which may not be obvious in theory, but a little attention reveals its critical approach. Definition of politics and justice, explanation of the necessary traits and characteristics for the rulers as well as criticism of flattery are among these issues. Although the moral critique of power is not sharp and, due to the atmosphere of ethics, it is accompanied by soft and sometimes indirect expression, its critical angle is quite prominent given the political situation of the society and the type of issues raised.