What is the ruling when banquets are numerous and crowded?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Judiciary

Book 62 · Issue 2 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If banquets become numerous and crowded, the ruler must refrain from accepting any of them and offer apologies to all attendees, requesting their pardon. This abstinence is mandatory because attending would distract him from the duty of governance that has been assigned to him.

Supporting text

The ruler must not accept some invitations while rejecting others, as doing so would break the hearts of those whose invitations were declined.