Prologue
Indonesia is currently facing a major test, not only in the economic and social spheres, but also in morals and faith. News of representatives implicated in corruption cases seems to be a regular occurrence.
Ironically, many of these cases are not investigated to their roots, due to the "great wall" of oligarchs and corruptors protecting their interests. Often, institutional leaders appear hesitant, seemingly afraid to take firm action for fear of criticism from those in power.
On the other hand, honesty seems to be a rare commodity. Disillusioned people have taken to the streets, staging massive demonstrations since August 25, 2025. These loud voices are a cry from the heart, a demand for justice, and a stern rebuke to leaders who have forgotten their promises.
The Eternal Example of the Prophet Muhammad SAW
In situations like this, we need to turn to the best example of all time: Rasulullah Muhammad SAW. He was not only a prophet, but also a leader whose honesty was recognized by friends and foes alike.
Even before he was appointed as an Apostle, the people of Mecca already called him by the title NaturalƮn which means trustworthy. A figure who is honest, trustworthy, and dignified.
The leadership of Rasulullah SAW was rooted in honesty and trustworthiness. He never abused his position, did not live excessively, and did not accumulate personal wealth.
Instead, he lived simply, sleeping on a rough mat, and often sharing his people's hunger. This principle stands in stark contrast to some of our current leaders, who either enrich themselves or turn a blind eye to the people's suffering.
Allah SWT firmly says:
"Indeed, Allah commands you to convey the message to those who are entitled to receive it, and (orders you) when you determine a law between people, that you determine it fairly..."
(QS. An-Nisa: 58)
This verse seems to directly rebuke our leaders: trust and justice are the foundations of leadership. Without them, the people's trust will be destroyed.
Lessons from Mass Action (Demonstration)
The recent massive demonstrations are clear evidence that the people can no longer remain silent. They demand honesty, transparency, and accountability from the representatives who are supposed to be fighting for the people's interests.
This phenomenon is actually a reflection for leaders: the people are not just numbers in the ballot box, but a trust that must be maintained. Rasulullah SAW once said:
"Each of you is a leader, and each of you will be asked about those you lead." ((HR. Bukhari and Muslim)
A true leader cannot sleep soundly while his people are restless. He must have the courage to listen to criticism, be open to feedback, and sincerely correct mistakes. If these principles are adhered to, the people will certainly not feel the need to take to the streets and raise their voices.
Honesty: The Nation's Panacea
Indonesia has no shortage of intelligent people. However, what the country lacks are honest people. We have internationally recognized figures in various fields. However, what we often feel is lacking are people who truly uphold the value of honesty.
In fact, honesty is the main foundation for building life in society, the nation, and the state. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized this in his saying:
āKeep being honest, because honesty leads to goodness, and goodness leads to heavenā¦ā (HR. Bukhari and Muslim).
This hadith suggests that honesty is not just a moral attitude, but a path to success in life in this world and the hereafter.
Without honesty, all the grandiose programs and brilliant policies will be nothing more than empty slogans that will ultimately disappoint the people. A dishonest leader may be able to lead strategically, but he will not last long because he will lose public trust.
Conversely, honesty is the door to trust. Honest leaders will be trusted, and people who trust them will unite to support them. It is through this unity that a nation will be strong and able to face various challenges.
Thus, it can be emphasized that this nation actually needs not only intellectual intelligence, but more importantly, honesty as a moral foundation. If honesty is upheld, corruption will be eradicated, the law will be just, public trust will be restored, and prosperity will be easily achieved.
Honesty is a panacea for the nationāa medicine that was taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) more than 14 centuries ago, but remains relevant today for curing the social and moral ills of modern society.
The example of the Prophet Muhammad for all professions
The month of Maulid reminds us all that emulating the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is not only the duty of a leader, but is the obligation of every person in their respective professions.
A teacher must instill honesty in educating students, students are required to be honest in studying and working, while farmers and fishermen must also uphold honesty when selling their harvest.
Likewise, politicians, who carry out the people's mandate, should make honesty the foundation of their fight for the people's voice. Furthermore, other professions, such as doctors, soldiers, police officers, and even entrepreneurs, are also required to uphold the value of honesty in every step of their work. This honesty is the key to a blessed life and the continuation of a just and prosperous society.
Rasulullah SAW, has warned about the dangers of laws that are not enforced fairly. He said:
"Indeed, what destroyed those before you was that when noble people stole, they tolerated it; but when weak people stole, they enforced the law against them. By Allah, if Fatimah bint Muhammad steals, I will definitely cut off her hands." (HR. Bukhari and Muslim).
This hadith emphasizes that justice must apply without discrimination. The law must not be sharp downwards and blunt upwards, because injustice like this was the cause of the destruction of previous peoples.
Thus, making Rasulullah SAW a role model means upholding the values of honesty and justice in every profession, so that the life of the nation and state is always on the right path and blessed by Allah SWT.
Epilogue: Maulid as a Momentum for Change
The month of Mawlid is not just ceremonial, but a momentum for reflection: have we really imitated the Prophet Muhammad in our daily lives? Has the leader made him? role model in carrying out the mandate?
If all aspects of life, from leaders and people, teachers and students, politicians and ordinary people, were willing to emulate the Prophet Muhammad SAW, this country would be cleaner, stronger, and more dignified.
Because, in truth, leadership isn't about position or popularity, but about service. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) proved this. Now, the question is: are our leaders truly willing to learn from the leadership of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)?
And Allah knows best
Author: Ustadz. Jalaluddin, M.Pd. Postgraduate Arabic Language Education (PBA) student at Darussalam University (UNIDA) Gontor.
