Naqaba al-Ashraf ( نقباء المملكة ) – "COUNCIL OF THE NOBLES"

The significance of the Naqaba al-Ashraf ("Council of the Nobles") in the context of Imam Idris ibn Abdullah al-Kamil al-Hasani al-Alawi's establishment of Morocco is profound. When Imam Idris founded Morocco as an independent al-Kamili al-Hasany state and as the "Commandery of the Faithful," he was not merely creating a political entity but also embedding a deeply rooted Islamic governance system.

In this framework, the role of the Chieftain (Nuqabā') was essential. This ROLE was not only a position of leadership but also carried the weight of maintaining RELIGIOUS and SOCIAL ORDER. The Nuqabā' acted as a REPRESENTATIVE of the SHUROFA’ (nobility) and played a crucial part in supporting the Imam's authority, ensuring that the state's governance aligned with Islamic principles.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself had undertaken a similar role, establishing a model of leadership and governance that the Naqaba al-Ashraf emulated. 

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself had undertaken a similar role, establishing a model of leadership and governance that the Naqaba al-Ashraf emulated. 

It is well known that after the death of the companion As'ad ibn Zurara, who was the leader of Banu Najjar, the maternal uncles of the Prophet from the Khazraj tribe in Medina, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, informed his people that they no longer had a Chief. 

وذكر الواقدي أنه مات على رأس أشهر من الهجرة رواة الحاكم في المستدرك من طريق الواقدي عن أبي الرجال،

 وفيه جاء بنو النجار فقالوا: يا رسول الله مات نقيبنا فنقب علينا، فقال:    " أنا نقيبكم ".

Al-Waqidi mentioned that he died within a few months of the migration. The narrators of Al-Hakim in Al-Mustadrak, according to Al-Waqidi through Abu al-Rijal, reported that the Banu al-Najjar came and said:

 "O Messenger of Allah, our chief has died; appoint someone in his place." 

 The Prophet replied: "I am your chief."

By incorporating this structure, Imam Idris al Akbar was reinforcing the legitimacy of his rule and ensuring the continuity of Islamic values in his newly established state.

The Naqaba al-Ashraf ("Council of the Nobles") in Morocco holds a central role in the nation's governance and religious life. Established with a significant mandate, it wields extensive authority over the PRESERVATION, REGULATION, and DOCUMENTATION of the Prophet Muhammad's lineage. The CERTIFICATES ISSUED by this council are not only recognized by judicial and administrative bodies, such as the Courts and the Ministry of Interior, but they also carry substantial weight in affirming the legitimacy and status of individuals within the society.

Furthermore, the Naqaba al-Ashraf is instrumental in guiding descendants of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) towards the virtuous moral values he advocated, as reflected in the Royal Decrees. This role underscores its function as a CUSTODIAN of PROPHETIC MEMORY and HERITAGE, ensuring that the teachings and legacy of the Prophet continue to influence and inspire Moroccan society. In this way, the Naqaba al-Ashraf serves as a crucial link between HISTORICAL LEGACY and CONTEMPORARY GOVERNANCE, reinforcing the ethical and spiritual foundations of the state.

Ultimately, the Naqaba al-Ashraf aims to promote the concepts of Muhammadan leadership and spread noble ethics and values of peaceful coexistence.  Under the Emirate of the Faithful, this institution has been instrumental in fostering these ideals, which have been a distinctive feature of the Moroccan system for nearly thirteen centuries.

The first Naqib in Islamic history following the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was Sidi Ahmad "Mazwar," meaning the Chief of the People, son of Imam Ali Haydar al-Hassani al-Alawi. The appointment of the Naqib is sanctioned by Royal Decree issued by the Amir al-Mu’minin (Commander of the Faithful), who is the head of the Prophet's family in Morocco. The Naqib, or Chief of the Shurofa’, is selected from among those who possess a distinguished lineage, profound knowledge, and exemplary moral.

The emerging Sharif Moulay Mohamed Amine bin Hamed al-Hasani of Fes stands out as a distinguished Deputy of the Naqib, whose substantial contributions have been central in promoting the noble ethics of Muhammadan teachings among Muslims. His efforts have been instrumental in fortifying the Moroccan model of moderate Islam, highlighting the vital role of the Sharifs and Quranic Zaouïas in preserving the social fabric against extremism, violence, and foreign ideologies. Through his leadership, he has reinforced the values of balance and harmony that characterize Morocco’s approach to Islamic practice.

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