Chapter 19: Special Qualities of Mu’awiyah
Special Qualities of Mu’awiyah:
Kingship in Islam began with the rule of Mu’awiyah ibn Abi Sufyan, making him the first king in Islamic history, and the best of them.
Mu’awiyah was an outstanding statesman and negotiator, capable of representing the Muslim nation to others and in the lifetime of the Prophet, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ placed great trust and confidence in his abilities.
Mu’awiyah’s caliphate is considered to have been almost entirely successful, and it was well-renowned for a period of stability and prosperity.
He was well-mannered and those around him used to say that they had never seen anyone more tolerant and patient than him.
Mu’awiyah would sit with ordinary people and speak with them as he did not let his high position of being the leader of the Muslims impact his character.
It has been reported that during his reign there were no major revolts within the Muslim Ummah, as he was very careful about justice and fairness, treating all segments of society equally.
Abdullah ibn Abbas stated that he had not seen anyone more suited to rule than Mu’awiyah.
Because of the high standards he set, no later ruler surpassed Mu’awiyah ibn Abi Sufyan.