One of the characteristics of Islamic political thought in classical era is not questioning the position of religion and state, whether integrated or separated. The debate that occurred in the classical era revolves around the mandatory establishment of a state, how to choose the head of state, and the conditions that must be owned by the head of state. Furthermore, the development of political thought also tends to be a response to the existing sociopolitical conditions. The emergence of Sunni itself is a form of anxiety over the perspective constructed by groups which tend to discredit the Prophet’s companion’s position which is considered by some opposing circles to have committed treason. For the Sunnis, the leadership after the Prophet Muhammad’s death was open–not limited to the possession of ahl bayt. Whatever the background, if deemed feasible and competent then he can be proposed to be a leader. Thus, the appointment of the caliph as a legitimate ruler depends on the specific qualities of the future leader. Keywords: Political Islam, sunni, religion and state, caliph