First Saudi State Governance Overview

First Saudi State Governance

• The First Saudi Government's foundation was based on the belief in the oneness of God (Tawheed) and the implementation of Islamic law (Shari'a).
• The government operated with the collaboration of religious leaders (Sh. Muhammad Abdul-Wahhab) and rulers (Al-Saud).
• After the conquest of Riyadh in 1187 H, Sh. Muhammad stepped down from his financial role, replaced by Imam Abdul-Aziz Bin Muhammad.
• The religious leader (Sheikh) continued as a key advisor on crucial matters.
• Rulers were titled Amir initially, evolving to Imam as the state expanded.
• The crown prince position was held by the oldest son during a ruler's reign.
• Army command was given to the crown prince.
• Governors were appointed to each region.
• Governors implemented Islamic law, supervised tax collection (Zakah), and prepared military defenses.
• They guarded the area and were in command of the army of the region

First Saudi State Military Leadership

• The First Saudi Government utilized Jihad to promote its teachings.
• Military conflicts were waged to spread religious teachings and defend the state
• Military recruitment wasn't standard soldiers; rather, the government requested tribal chiefs and district governors to gather fighters for the Amir.
• Recruits were also voluntary soldiers seeking religious rewards or war spoils.
• Commanders were responsible for protecting fortresses.
• The Amir was usually in charge of the military leadership or delegated command to prominent regional figures.

First Saudi State Military Commanders

• Key military commanders included Hijaylan Bin Hamad (Qasim), Abdul-Wahhab Abu Nuqtah (Aseer), Suleiman Bin Ifaysan (Kharj), Othman Al-Madhayfi (Adwan tribe), and Mutlaq Matayri (Baraymi).

First Saudi State Economy

• The First Saudi State's economic system mirrored early Islamic governance.
• Major income sources included Zakah and war loot.
• Extensive expenses included paying the salaries of governors, Islamic judges, Zakah collectors, teachers, and supporting the needy and war victims.
• During Imam Saud Bin Abdul-Aziz's reign, income notably exceeded expenditures.
• Sheikh Muhammad oversaw initial financial affairs, later transitioned to the Amir.

First Saudi State Education and Scholars

• The First Saudi State made significant educational investments.
• Key subjects in the curriculum emphasized Islamic knowledge, including Tawheed, Tafseer, Hadith, Fiqh, and the Prophet's biography.
• Educational scholars (students) like Abdul-Allah Bin Sheikh, Hussein Bin Sheikh, Suleiman Bin Abdul-Allah, Abdul-Aziz Bin Hussein, Abdul-Rahman Bin Nami, and Hamad Bin Maemar made significant contributions.
• Arabic language instruction was prioritized, alongside Islamic teachings.