South Asian Academy of Management

Abstract

This paper examines the normative framework of ethical leadership in Islam, contrasting it with mainstream ethical theories. Drawing from Islamic texts, including the Quran, Hadith, Nahj al-Balagha, the paper presents a leadership model that prioritizes social responsibility, collective wellbeing, and accountability to God. Ethical leadership in Islam is framed as a divine trust, rooted in justice, selflessness, humility, and the welfare of others. The paper argues that these principles offer a sustainable, eternal framework for ethical leadership that can address contemporary leadership crises marked by selfishness and short-term goals. By integrating these principles into modern leadership practices, societies and organizations can cultivate leaders whose actions are motivated by altruism, long-term goals, and a deep sense of divine responsibility.

Citation: Syed, J. (2025). A normative framework of ethical leadership in Islam. SAAM Working Paper Series 25031. South Asian Academy of Management.

Indicative Discussion Questions

1. How do Islamic leadership principles, such as accountability and justice, challenge the materialistic and individualistic focus of mainstream leadership theories? Can you think of real-world examples where these principles could provide solutions to contemporary leadership crises?
2. In what ways do the teachings of the Quran, Hadith, and Nahj al-Balagha redefine leadership as a responsibility to both the community and to God? How can these religious concepts be integrated into modern organizational practices to improve leadership effectiveness?
3. According to the paper, Islamic leadership emphasizes collective welfare and the common good over individual gain. How does this contrast with Western models of leadership, particularly those focused on individual success and profit maximization?
4. What role does humility play in Islamic leadership, and how does it differ from the concepts of authority and power in mainstream leadership theories? How can leaders cultivate humility and service orientation in today’s competitive, profit-driven organizational environments?

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