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Strength of character is a criterion for leadership
The Israelites were ruled by judges until the time of Prophet Samoeel (AS), when the people demanded to have a king under whom they could fight to regain their lost territories. Allah chose Talut as their king ' a very capable man, though neither wealthy nor from a distinguished tribe among the Israelites. The people objected to his selection, saying, 'How can he have kingship over us while we are more worthy of kingship than him and he has not been given any measure of wealth?' (2:247) At this, Samoeel (AS) replied, 'Indeed, Allah has chosen him over you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature.' (2:247) This conveys that in the sight of Allah, wealth, caste, or social status is not a criterion for leadership. Rather, one’s strength of character ' defined by one’s knowledge, physique, and ability to lead by example ' is the true criterion for selecting a leader.