There is a famous and often mentioned story about a man (from among the worshippers) who criticized the leadership of Caliph Harun Al-Rashid during his reign.

The reprimand was given so harshly that Caliph Harun asked him why it was done that way.

This story is told from a nussak (worshipper) who objected and rebuked Caliph Harun Al-Rashid with a reprimand to fear Allah.

However, the man used very rude language and his impolite style caused the ears that heard him to be less than pleased with the matter.

Then, Caliph Harun Al-Rashid said – “O so-and-so, be modest in speaking and asking me.”

Then, the man said – “That is the lowest way that is obligatory upon you.”

So, the Caliph asked again – "Am I evil and more vile than Pharaoh?"

The man said – “Even Pharaoh was more vile and evil because he said: “I am your god, the Most High.”

Then, the Caliph asked again – “You are right. Tell me, who between you and Musa bin 'Imran is better?”

Then, the man replied – “Musa bin ‘Imran is the kalimullah. Allah created him for Himself and chose him to be given His revelation.”

Then, Caliph Al-Rashid said – “You are right. Don’t you know that Allah SWT when He sent Moses and his brother (Harun) to Pharaoh. He said to them both: “So, both of you should speak to him with gentle words, perhaps he will take warning or feel fear.”

The Caliph continued – “(The instruction to speak softly) this was in the state of pride and arrogance of Pharaoh as you know. While I was in the state that you know, I carried out most of the things that Allah has made obligatory upon me and I did not devote myself to anyone other than Him. I also stopped at the greatest of His hudud (not transgressing the limits of Allah), followed His commands and left His prohibitions.

Even so, you reprimanded me with the harshest, rudest words and the worst manners. So, shouldn't you be civilized with the manners of Allah? Shouldn't you take the morals of the righteous as an example?"

So, the man said – “I have made a mistake, O Commander of the Faithful, and I apologize to you.”

The Caliph replied – “May Allah forgive you.” _{(Tarikh at-Tabari, Ibn Jarir (8/358)}

Conclusion

Scholars conclude that this is evidence that da'wah needs to be done in the best way, appropriate for those to whom it is intended.

Do not start your da'wah by criticizing and using without asking first, instead, preach in a prudent manner.

Even if you are a citizen, you can reprimand a leader, but the reprimand needs to be done well.

However, that doesn't mean that the reprimand can always be done in the same way; when you see that there is no effect, upgrade your reprimand to the next step or in a form that can reach the person.

By Allah, the Almighty.

Source:
Mufti of the Federal Territory

Credit to Fizah Lee (Tzkrh)

Date of Input: 14/05/2026 | Updated: 14/05/2026 | asmunir