regardless of his actions or his piety. “Jihad is valid with the imams, whether they act justly or evilly,” ibn Hanbal declared. “The Friday worship, the two Feasts, and the Pilgrimage (are observed) with [the sultans], even if they are not upright, just, and pious. Taxes are paid to [the caliphs], whether they deal justly or wickedly.” For ibn Hanbal, social order had to be maintained at all costs. No matter how “un-Islamic” the actions of a Muslim leader may appear, his rule must be followed. Ibn Taymiyyah disagreed with his master. To live freely and justly as Muslims required a leader
