Rather than discussing the dirty politics of foul language, accusations, blame games and horse trading, let’s have a look at some of the finer aspects of our religion and culture.

Two young men once entered the gathering (Majlis) of Hazrat Umar (RA), walked up to a man, pointed their fingers at him and said: “O Amirul Momineen, he is the man. He killed our father.” “What do you mean, he killed your father” asked Hazrat Umar (RA). He then asked the accused man if it was true that he had killed the young men’s father. “Yes, Amirul Momineen,” came the reply. “Their father was killed by me.”


When asked what had happened, he answered: “O Umar (RA), their father rode into my field of crops on his camel. I asked him not to continue and to turn back, but he paid no attention to what I said. I then threw a stone at him that, unfortunately, hit his head and he fell off his camel and died instantly.” Hazrat Umar (RA) said: “Then you will have to pay the penalty which is death �" death for death.” The judgement was instant and clear; no need for further questioning or delay.