ETHICAL LEADERSHIP AND TAZKIYAH AL-NAFS IN THE ATHĀR OF ʿUMAR IBN AL-KHAṬṬĀB: A THEMATIC ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study examines the concept of Tazkiyah al-Nafs (self-purification) in the athār of ʿUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb, with particular focus on self-accountability (muḥāsabah), taqwā, zuhd, moral discipline, and ethical leadership. Drawing upon selected narrations preserved in Musannaf Ibn Abī Shaybah and Musannaf ʿAbd al-Razzāq, the article employs a qualitative thematic analysis to identify the spiritual and ethical principles underlying ʿUmar’s guidance and practice. The study analyzes relevant Arabic athār, provides English translations, and examines their implications within broader discussions of Islamic ethics and leadership. The findings reveal that ʿUmar’s model of leadership was deeply rooted in continuous self-evaluation, God-consciousness, moral restraint, and personal integrity. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the contemporary relevance of these principles for ethical governance, character development, educational reform, and organizational leadership. By highlighting the relationship between self-purification and responsible leadership, this research contributes to contemporary scholarship on Islamic ethical thought and leadership studies.