Then select the noblest and most exalted in your estimate for Judgeship –

one not preoccupied with his own problems,

and not involved in any quarrels.

Free from recurring errors, he must be the one

who readily accepts Truth once it is known.

He must be a man of immaculate record,

never spurred by avarice. One who does

not decide without weighing the pros and cons,

is cautious when in doubt, considers each and

every evidence and is least restive over prolonged

re-examinations, and new disclosure of facts,

And yet, he is the one least stained by flattery,

never infused with conceit. Alas! Such men are few!

However, when you find one, and have made an

appointment, study his judgements as often as you can.

Pay him enough and more,

so that he is free from want,

and is not tempted to go to people for his needs.

Give him a position so nearer to you that no other

privileged men would aspire, thus keep him

free from all intrigues.

Do not include a miser among your counsellors

for he will deter you from granting favours,

and will frighten you of poverty. Nor a coward,

who will make you weak of intent and resolve.

And not a greedy man either, for he will push

you to unjustified extremes. Miserliness, cowardice

and greed are all born of mistrust in Allah.

And now, do not remain concealed from your

people for an unduly long period for such a

concealment and aloofness is a kind of tyranny,

and inherits ignorance about the state of affairs.

The masses remain uninformed; things small assume

exaggerated proportions, while important matters

are ignored. Your right actions might appear faulty to

them, and some might even commend your errors.

Truth and Untruth would thus remain undistinguished.

And do not act like a wild animal

set to devour whatever comes your way.

For the people under your care are of two catagories:

either your brothers in Faith, or your like in creation.

They all commit mistakes and are victims

of their weaknesses - some do it on purposes,

others do it inadvertently. Be gracious and forgiving,

the way you would love to be forgiven by God Almighty.

For you are placed over them, and the one who has

appointed you is placed over you - but above all is Allah.

He has placed their affairs in your care, and thus

subjected you to a test. Do not set yourself to bear

His wrath nor can you afford to remain

without His forgiveness and Mercy.

Never repent for having forgiven.