Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal’s Refusal of Appointment of Judge

Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal’s Refusal of Appointment of Judge

It is reported on the authority of Imam al-Shafee’ that he said to Ar-Rasheed:

“Yemen is in need of a judge.” He said: “Choose a man and we will appoint him to it.” So Imam al-Shafee’ said to Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal, who was visiting him among a number of seekers of knowledge: “Will you not accept (the post of) judge in Yemen?” But he refused vehemently to accept it, saying: “I only visit you for the sake of (acquiring) the knowledge which causes me to abstain from the life of this world. Do you order me to accept the position of judge? Were it not for the knowledge, I would not speak to you after today.” Upon hearing this Imam al-Shafee’ became embarassed.”

Al Bidayah Wan-Nihaayah, vol 14, p. 386
Manaqib al-Shafee’ by al-Baihaqi