THE LEADERSHIP OF MUHAMMAD

An acclaimed Islamic scholar offers lessons in leadership based on the example of Muhammad in this historical work.

As a professor of strategic thought at the National Defense College of the United Arab Emirates, the author or editor of more than a dozen books, and a former tutor to Prince William, Hayward is undeniably one of academia’s most visible Islamic thinkers. Though the author’s scholarly bona fides are on full display, as seen in the work’s full command of Islamic theology and the Arabic language as well as its rich endnotes, this concise volume eschews academic and religious jargon for an accessible narrative geared toward the general public, both Muslim and non-Muslim. First, the author dismantles a simplistic notion that equates Muhammad’s success solely to his personality traits, such as his piety, compassion, and courage, noting that successful leaders throughout history have included “deeply flawed, corrupt or wickedly cruel people.” Avoiding a “moral assessment as the primary basis” of its analysis, this book instead looks at Muhammad’s conceptualization of leadership and his practical actions that offer insights for today’s leaders on effective strategies. Muhammad, for example, had a “common touch,” like his enthusiasm for wrestling, that allowed him to “relate and appeal” to average people. This was complemented by a “consultative leadership” style that prioritized participatory decision-making. Perhaps most important for the prophet was his theological understanding that true leaders are not self-made but are chosen by God and should submit to his will. Moreover, the best leaders, according to Muhammad, serve as “shepherds,” rather than tyrants, who protect and guide those whom they are responsible for managing. Additional commentary is presented on Muhammad’s specific leadership strategies as a military tactician and diplomat. While the author’s use of the trendy language of modern self-help (such as its emphasis on “Maximising Human Potential,” “Strategic Vision,” and “Strategic Communication”) borders on kitsch, this volume is nevertheless a learned history of Islam and Muhammad that succeeds in its goal of providing contemporary and future managers with valuable insights from his life on successful leadership strategies.

A well-researched and applicable analysis of Muhammad’s leadership.