“Indeed, being a Leader leads to sorrow and regret on the Day of Resurrection…”

Ar-Rashid, a first century ruler, once said to Al-Fudayl bin Iyaad, “Admonish me.”

“O Leader of the believers!” said Al-Fudayl, “Indeed your grandfather, Al-Abbaas, the uncle of the Prophet, once went to the Prophet and said, ‘O Messenger of Allah, appoint me to be a leader.’ The Messenger of Allah said, ‘My uncle, indeed, being a leader leads to sorrow, and regret on the Day of Resurrection. If you are able to go without ever being a leader, then do so!'”

Moved to tears, Ar-Rashid said, “Give me more.”

Al-Fudayl looked at Ar-Rashid and said, “O one who has a handsome face, if you are able to protect that face from the Hell-fire then do so. And beware of ever cheating or betraying your people.”

Being much moved by Al-Fudayl’s words, Ar-Rashid wanted to reward him.

“Do you have any debts?” he asked.

“To my Lord, yes, and He will hold me accountable for them,” said Al-Fudayl.

“I am of course referring to debts to other human beings,” said Ar-Rashid.

After Al-Fudayl answered in the negative, Ar-Rashid said to one of his assistants, “Give him 1000 dinars, which he can use to help his family.”

Al-Fudayl was greatly offended by these words and said, “How perfect Allah is! I am guiding you to safety and you want to reward me with this paltry, worldly sum!”

He then left, having refused to take anything.

Source : Stories of Repentance – by Muhammad Abduh Mughawiri